R&D Chemist

R&D Chemist

Location: Taunton

Salary: £30,000-£35,000

Contract: 12-Month Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover)

Potential for Permanent Opportunity

We are exclusively supporting an established and growing manufacturing business in the recruitment of a Chemist to join their technical team on a 12-month maternity cover contract. This is an excellent opportunity for a scientifically qualified individual looking to develop their career in product development, laboratory testing and technical support within a collaborative manufacturing environment. There is genuine potential for this position to become permanent for the right person.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a key role in coordinating product trials, supporting research and development activities, and ensuring products meet quality and regulatory requirements. The position offers exposure across the full product lifecycle, from concept through to manufacture and launch, while working closely with colleagues across technical, purchasing, sales and marketing functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the research and development of new products and identify opportunities for product improvement.

• Coordinate production trials and laboratory testing, ensuring accurate documentation and records are maintained.

• Analyse trial data and prepare technical reports and presentations for senior management.

• Assist with regulatory compliance activities, including product registrations and technical documentation.

• Support products throughout the development process, from initial concept through to manufacturing and commercial launch.

• Collaborate with Purchasing on raw material evaluations and testing.

• Provide technical support to Sales and Marketing teams where required.

• Maintain and update technical databases relating to raw materials and product information.

• Undertake laboratory activities including quality control testing and preparation of development batches.

• Ensure all laboratory activities are carried out in accordance with Health & Safety procedures.

• Provide general technical support across the department and work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve business objectives.

• Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role as required.

About You

• A degree in Chemistry or another relevant scientific discipline.

• A strong scientific background with an interest in product development and laboratory work.

• Excellent organisational skills and exceptional attention to detail.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• The ability to analyse data and produce clear technical reports and presentations.

• Confidence managing multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment.

• A proactive approach with the ability to work independently and use initiative.

• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.

• A professional and collaborative approach to working with internal stakeholders.

What's on Offer

• Salary of £30,000 - £35,000 depending on experience.

• 12-month maternity cover with genuine potential for a permanent position.

• Exclusive opportunity with a well-established manufacturing business.

• Broad and varied technical role with exposure to product development and innovation.

• Supportive working environment with opportunities to broaden your technical expertise.

If you're a scientifically qualified individual looking for a varied technical role where you can make a real contribution to product innovation and development, we'd love to hear from you.