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.
Job Title:
Laboratory Technician
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Laboratory Technician operates analytical equipment for the evaluation of product characteristics and quality. They are responsible for accurate testing of raw materials, in-process and finished goods, Per applicable work instructions or test methods. They are responsible for the communication of test results, maintenance and calibration of analytical equipment, housekeeping and safe handling and disposal of testing chemicals. The Laboratory Technician is responsible for the timely reporting and input into the SAP data base.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct raw material, in-process and finished goods testing.
- Communicate results to Production Supervisors, Technical, Shipping & Receiving and other staff members for timely processing of plant materials.
- Ensure deviations from specifications are reported timely to appropriate people.
- Ensure the accurate and timely input of results into SAP data base.
- Prepare customer samples.
- Support the laboratory environment by stocking lab supplies, keeping track of inventory, disposing of samples and maintaining a clean, orderly environment.
- Use of proper PPE, SDS, and related requirements to ensure safety.
- Support problem solving where analytical capabilities are involved.
- Thorough knowledge of related Quality Control system components.
- Sample waste water system for testing.
- Participate in lab project work such as Gage R&R studies, capability analysis, creation / maintenance of test methods / work instructions.
- Ensure accurate defect tracking through FPP.
- Support compliance efforts – RCMS, ISO, PSM, OSHA, etc.
- Manage time to effectively perform multiple job tasks safety and accurately.
- Immediately notify Supervisor of any problems.
- Must have good written and oral communication skills to Communicate with various levels of individuals throughout the organization.
- Complete logs, batch sheets, and other required paperwork.
- Attend meetings as required
- Attend training as required.
- Must be able to work overtime as needed.
- Must be able to work various shifts, including off shift or swing shift as required.
- Follow all EHS policies and procedures.
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in the areas of Safety, Quality, Cost, and Production.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school or equivalent degree
- Two years’ experience in a lab or quality setting
- Demonstrated ability to function as part of a team in a high performance work environment
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOP)
- Basic computer skills (Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel)
- Use calculator and perform basic math
- Ability to regularly stand, walk and reach with hands and arms
- Ability to lift 50 pounds occasionally
- Ability to follow instructions, record data
- Must be able to effectively communicate with Co-workers
- Motivated to learn new tasks, new concepts, new applications, etc.
- Must be able to wear a respirator and other required PPE.
- Must be able to meet physical requirements of position.
SKILLS:
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Previous knowledge of lab operations and testing experience
- Background in inorganic or organic Chemistry
- Knowledge of LEAN SixSigma
- Understanding of Statistical Process Control
- Average to Above average level in the following areas: Reading, Applied mathematics, Applied Technology, Locating Information, Observation, Teamwork
- Familiar with ISO-9001 and Process Safety Management
- Ability to operate computer
🌍 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)
📚 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