This is a hands-on senior chemist role within a well-established, family-run manufacturing business supplying specialist materials across international markets.
You’ll take ownership of production chemistry and product development, working closely with the Director to improve existing products and drive new formulation work.
The Role
Own production chemistry across core product lines
Support and improve batch manufacturing, ensuring consistency and quality
Troubleshoot real-world issues including curing, adhesion and performance
Develop and refine formulations (particularly within MMA / resin systems)
Scale formulations from lab through to production
Work closely with operations to improve yield, throughput and efficiency
Support raw material selection and supplier interactions
Contribute to the design and development of new lab facilities
Provide technical input on customer issues and product performance
What They’re Looking For
Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science or similar
Strong experience in one or more of the following:
coatings, resins, polymers, adhesives, construction materials
Proven experience in a production or manufacturing environment
Hands-on formulation and scale-up experience
Good understanding of curing systems, fillers, pigments and material performance
Confident communicator, able to work across technical and non-technical teams
Comfortable taking ownership and making decisions in a fast-paced environment
Why This Role
Real ownership of products, processes and improvements
Direct access to decision makers
Opportunity to shape new lab facilities
Visible impact on production and product performance
Long-standing, stable business with international reach
Supportive, close-knit team environment
Package
Competitive salary (DOE)
Pension
21 days holiday + bank holidays
Christmas shutdown
Relocation support / accommodation available if required
Long-term progression as the business continues to grow
For more information, or to apply, please contact me at lewis@cranleighstem.co.uk
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.
