R&D Technologist I Permanent I On-Site I £Competitive I Derbyshire
Are you looking to develop your career in research and development within an innovative manufacturing environment? We're recruiting for an R&D Technologist to join a growing technical team, where you'll play a key role in developing new polymer compounds, improving existing formulations, and supporting products from concept through to commercialisation. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with existing commercial/industrial lab experience to apply to a new environment and business.
The Role
As an R&D Technologist, you'll work closely with production, quality, commercial teams and customers to develop high-quality, commercially viable polymer compounds. You'll be involved in formulation development, product testing, technical problem-solving, and continuous improvement projects while supporting new product introductions and customer applications.
Key Responsibilities
Support compound development projects from concept through to commercialisation.
Develop, test and optimise polymer formulations.
Provide technical support during product scale-up and new product introductions.
Investigate and resolve technical and customer-related challenges.
Maintain accurate formulation data within SAP.
Support continuous improvement initiatives, including raw material optimisation and cost reduction.
Assist with laboratory operations and technical documentation.
Explore the use of digital and AI tools to support innovation, product development and data analysis.
Visit customers to understand requirements, support product trials and build strong working relationships.
Ensure compliance with Health & Safety and relevant regulatory requirements.
About You
To be successful in this role, you'll have:
A degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or a related scientific discipline.
Experience in a manufacturing or laboratory-based environment.
Experience formulating polymeric/plastic materials.
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage projects from concept through to completion.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain technical information clearly.
A proactive approach with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation.
An understanding of AI and digital tools and how they can support product development and data analysis.
Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365; SAP experience would be advantageous.
Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
The ability to build effective working relationships across teams and with customers.
Working HoursMonday - Thursday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 8:30am - 1:30pm
Apply
If you're passionate about research and development, enjoy solving technical challenges, and are looking to join a forward-thinking manufacturing business, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today with your CV to be considered for this exciting opportunity.
Cranleigh STEM is a specialist recruitment partner in STEM, Sustainability, and SHEQ. We work with innovative organisations and purpose-led professionals to help solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from advancing clean technologies to driving scientific discovery.
We understand that progress in these fields depends on people. Our role is to connect the right individuals with the right teams, whether that’s scientists in the lab, engineers on the ground, or leaders at the helm.
🚀 Our Mission
To support innovative organisations by delivering the talent they need to grow, evolve, and make a meaningful impact in their field.
🔎 Our Core Values
Challenge
We’re comfortable working in complex, technical spaces. We approach every brief with curiosity and care, asking the right questions to deliver people who can genuinely move your organisation forward.
Collaboration
We see recruitment as a partnership. That means open communication, transparency, and shared goals, whether you’re building a team or looking for your next role.
Commitment
We take pride in the work we do. We’re committed to high standards, long-term relationships, and doing what’s right for our clients, our candidates, and the industries we serve.
💡 Our Purpose
To contribute to a more sustainable and innovative future by helping organisations in science and technology attract and retain the talent they need to grow responsibly and with purpose.
🌍 Our Reach
Headquartered in South London, we work with clients and candidates across the UK, Europe, and the USA.
🔬 Areas of Expertise
Biotechnology
Pharmaceuticals
Chemicals & Materials
Food Technology
Clean Technology
Electric Vehicles & Sustainable Engineering
If you're hiring or exploring your next move in STEM, we’re here to help.
