Polymer Coatings Specialist Technologist

smart4chemicals; North East; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer in surface technologies based in Newcastle is seeking a Polymer Coatings Technologist to develop and optimise surface coatings for PVC films. The role involves contributing to new product launches, improving formulations, and providing technical support to production teams. Ideal candidates will possess a relevant degree and a minimum of 5 years of experience in the coatings industry. A competitive salary and additional benefits are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus and pension scheme

Additional benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' hands-on experience in the coatings industry.
• Experience in plastics, polymers, or surface technologies desirable.
• Strong knowledge of new product development and process optimisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise coating formulations and techniques.
• Design and implement water-based inks and primers.
• Conduct laboratory testing to evaluate film and coating properties.
• Provide technical support to production teams and troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Self-motivated

Collaboration

Education

Degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) in Chemistry, Polymer Science or Material Science

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Polymer Coatings Technologist

Location: Newcastle

Salary: £40-50k

Our client is a global manufacturer recognised for their innovation in PVC surface technologies and are seeking a Coating Specialist to join their team.

The Role

As a Coating Specialist Technologist, you'll play a key role in developing and optimising surface coatings for decorative PVC films. You will contribute to new product launches, improve existing formulations, and support manufacturing processes from concept through to commercialisation. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong technical knowledge in coatings and polymers to make a real impact in a forward-thinking, market-leading business.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise coating formulations and techniques (including excimer, UV and 2K lacquers).
• Design and implement water-based inks and primers, with a focus on performance and sustainability.
• Apply embossing techniques to create innovative textures, patterns, and finishes.
• Support product qualification and approval programmes across the NPD pipeline.
• Conduct laboratory testing to evaluate film and coating properties.
• Provide technical support to production teams and resolve manufacturing or quality issues.
• Assist customers with product specifications, application techniques, and troubleshooting.
• Evaluate raw materials and suppliers against quality, cost, and sustainability standards.
• Support site and customer trials, which may require occasional travel and flexible working hours.

Candidate Requirements

• Degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) in Chemistry, Polymer Science or Material Science (essential).
• Minimum 5 years' hands-on experience in the coatings industry.
• Experience in plastics, polymers, or surface technologies is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of new product development, process optimisation, and laboratory testing.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and comfortable working independently or in a cross-functional team.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary (£40-50k experience-dependent).
• Bonus and pension scheme.
• Additional benefits package.

Opportunity to contribute to the development of cutting-edge, sustainable products in a growing sector.