Research Chemist / Lab Manager

DECOTEK Automotive is based in the Irish midlands employing approximately 320 people in a highly skilled manufacturing environment. We design, develop and manufacture premium exterior trim components for the global automotive industry customers.

We are currently recruiting for a Research Chemist/Lab Manager in our Quality Department.

This role will be full-time. Working hours will be Monday-Friday 08.00-16.30.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Research & development of new product concepts.
• Review all lab & plant documents and reports to ensure completeness and compliance with
  customer and company requirements.
• Method development, optimisation & validation. Data analysis & interpretation
• Design new material formulations and reformulate current products to improve performance.
• Material characterisation
• Manage and assist with various research projects.
• Exploring new technologies, planning, and executing experiments; data analysis and interpretation.
• Involved in investigations or troubleshooting required for product performance issues.
• Assist others with and perform lab techniques.
• Manage reporting, monitoring, resources, and laboratory personnel.
• Work closely with team members to provide effective solutions to support business and quality objectives.
• Training and mentoring Lab technicians and assistants.
• Facilitate effective communication across internal departments by trending and reporting data.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, health & safety protocols, budgets, and schedules.
• Establish and improve procedures and processes by addressing issues and risks.
• Utilize proven employee management solutions to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Ensure the lab establishes and maintains a calibration program for testing equipment that affect quality results.
• Oversee the day to day running of the Quality Assurance Laboratory e.g. Corrosion, salt-spray, crosscut testing etc.

Experience and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree/Masters/PHD in science or related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of materials and coating finishes.
• Experience working in a research field
• 3+ years of progressive management or supervisory experience.
• Effective data trending, document control, and technical bench skills.
• Strong problem-solving, training, team building, and mentoring abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent managerial skills, interpersonal and coaching skills.
• Expert knowledge of laboratory health and safety protocols.
• Ability to multitask

Interested? What can Decotek offer you?

• We provide 21.5 days of annual leave - plus your 10 statutory bank holidays
• Compassionate Leave
• Refer A Friend Scheme
• Bike to Work Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family, offering up to 8 free counselling sessions, and many more wellness benefits
• Attendance Bonus
• Health & Safety Bonus
• Bi-Annual Events including Summer BBQ & Xmas Dinner

 We'd love to hear from you. Please hit the link to apply, or get in touch via our careers page for more information on any of our open vacancies @ Decotek Automotive Ltd.