Thin Films Lab Technician

smart4chemicals; Ormskirk, Preston; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in advanced materials technologies is seeking an R&D Laboratory Technician to support the development of new coated products. This hands-on role focuses on thin-film processes and includes operating laboratory equipment, preparing substrates, and conducting tests. The ideal candidate should have a strong interest in science or materials technology, with GCSE/A-Level qualifications in Maths and Science. The position offers a competitive salary and various benefits including annual leave and a staff bonus scheme.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus public holidays

Staff bonus scheme

Defined contribution pension

Cycle to Work scheme

On-site parking

On-site fitness activities

Qualifications

• An enthusiastic team player with a genuine interest in science or engineering.
• Confident in working with chemicals and laboratory processes.
• Strong organisational skills and effective workload management.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain thin-film deposition and laboratory equipment.
• Prepare substrates and apply coatings via controlled processes.
• Conduct durability and performance tests.

Skills

Enthusiastic, self-motivated team player

Confidence with chemicals

Strong organisational skills

Education

GCSE/A-Level qualifications in Maths and Science

BTEC, HNC, or similar in science or engineering

Tools

Microsoft applications

Job description

R&D Laboratory Technician - Thin Film Technology

Location: West Lancashire
Salary: Up to £32,000 (DOE)
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time

About the Company

A global leader in advanced materials technologies is seeking an R&D Laboratory Technician to join its Thin Film Technology team. The company operates across architectural, automotive, and high-tech markets, and is committed to innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence.

This role sits within a specialist R&D group focused on developing next-generation coated materials products and processes through cutting‑edge thin‑film deposition technologies.

The Role

As an R&D Laboratory Technician, you will support the development of new coated products, working on projects ranging from rapid, incremental improvements to long‑term strategic research.

This is a hands‑on technical role with a strong focus on accuracy, attention to detail, and continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain thin‑film deposition and laboratory equipment
• Prepare substrates and apply coatings via controlled processes
• Conduct durability and performance tests
• Measure and record key coating properties
• Support problem‑solving activities both in the lab and at production facilities
• Maintain high standards of organisation, safety, and documentation

Candidate Profile

• An enthusiastic, self‑motivated team player with a genuine interest in science, engineering, or materials technology
• Confident working with chemicals and hands‑on laboratory processes
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage workloads effectively
• GCSE/A-Level qualifications (Maths and Science essential)
• Experience using Microsoft applications

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• BTEC, HNC, or similar in a science or engineering discipline
• Experience in operating and maintaining technical or complex equipment
• Knowledge of vacuum systems and thin‑film processes (training provided)
• Previous lab or R&D experience in a technical environment

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Staff bonus scheme (up to 10% of salary, not guaranteed)
• Defined contribution pension with up to 8% employer contribution
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Ongoing professional development
• On‑site parking, EV charging points, and restaurant
• On‑site fitness activities and wellbeing events