Quality Lab Technician

Synthomer is a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives, and health and protection – growing markets that serve billions of end users worldwide. Headquartered in London, UK and publicly listed there since 1971, we employ c.3,900 employees across our 5 innovation centres of excellence and more than 29 manufacturing sites across Europe, North America and Asia. Around 20% of our sales volumes are from new and patent protected products.

At our innovation centres of excellence in the UK, Germany, China, Malaysia and Ohio, USA we collaborate closely with our customers to develop new products and enhance existing ones tailored to their needs, with an increasing range of sustainability benefits. Since 2021, we have been proud holders of the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, which recognises green technology businesses making a significant contribution to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.

What are we looking for?

The Quality Laboratory Technician is responsible for quality testing and adjustment (as needed) of all materials manufactured at the Chester site to ensure they meet pre-established quality specifications. These materials include latex polymers, wax dispersions, polymeric resins, other related materials and some raw materials. The Quality Laboratory Technician will also support continuous improvement for customer satisfaction and product quality. This is accomplished through prompt response to customer concerns, completion of identified corrective actions, participation in troubleshooting and incident investigations and analysis of data through the SAP quality system.

What you'll own for this role...

• Operation of laboratory and other analytical equipment for the evaluation of product characteristics and quality
• Participate in Safety programs upholding a safe work environment for self and co-workers
• Accurate and timely reporting of results and applicable adjustments to batches in process to assure FPP
• Accurate and timely recording of results in SAP
• Support activities related to the maintenance of plant hygiene practices
• Basic maintenance and calibration of lab equipment as assigned
• Support customer service for prompt resolution of complaints, returns and other quality breaches
• Support process engineers with product and data analyses for investigations and product development
• Participate actively in process and product improvement projects
• Verify raw material certificates of analysis to approve material receipt
• Support maintenance of plant SAP Quality Module as assigned
• Collaborate with other facilities ensuring common work practices and sharing best maintenance practices

What you'll need to be successful...

• Safety and environmentally minded working in an industrial environment
• Good communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and work with effective time management skills
• Strong practice and knowledge of computer systems: Excel, MS Word, Outlook
• Works well in a team environment
• Self-directed, Strong initiative
• Knowledge of Lab operations, testing and/or basic chemistry background
• Experience in a Manufacturing environment and/or chemical processing experience
• High School diploma or equivalent

Qualifications that can set you apart...

• Post High School Education
• Advanced problem solving and facilitation skills
• Knowledge of SAP and QIMacros
• Demonstrate effective planning skills to achieve specific goals
• Knowledge of statistical principles as related to quality analysis: i.e., process capability, GR&R and SPC
• 3 to 5 years of Quality Assurance experience
• Continuous improvement; Lean Six Sigma Experience
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems

Global Benefits Overview

• Competitive, market-aligned compensation

• Discretionary global bonus scheme

• Discretionary Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) – for senior positions

• Company car or car allowance – varies by region and role

• Healthcare – tailored to regional locations

• Parental leave and family support – maternity, paternity, adoption (aligned with regional policies)

• Working options – flexibility where it matters, based on role and business needs

• Learning & development opportunities – training, online platforms, buddy/mentorship programs, Internal Synthomer University with L&D offers

• Wellbeing support – employee assistance program (EAP), mental health resources, wellbeing initiatives

• Retirement / pension contributions – plans vary by country

• Culture of Inclusion – where everyone can thrive

• Performance culture, global reward & recognition programmes