Process Chemist

NES Fircroft is supporting a global science‑led manufacturing business operating in the Agri‑science and specialty chemicals space, known for translating cutting‑edge research into large‑scale, real‑world production. This is a highly technical environment where chemistry directly impacts global supply chains and product performance.

They're now looking for an experienced Process Chemist to join their R&D / Process Development function and play a key role in developing, optimising, and supporting manufacturing processes from lab through to scale‑up and production.

This will be an initial 12‑month contract, with potential for extensions. Mon‑Fri at the Grangemouth Manufacturing Centre. 36 hrs per week, 7.2 hr per day.

Lead laboratory programmes to develop and improve chemical manufacturing processes, ensuring they meet agreed targets.

Provide expert process chemistry knowledge to Process Development, Supply Chain, and project teams, guiding the preparation and execution of development plans.

Proactively advise and support manufacturing and development personnel in resolving process problems and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Manage activities in strict compliance with site, company, and regulatory requirements, continuously seeking to improve safe working practices.

Ensure project data and information are meticulously stored, preparing technical reports to document experimental results.

• Significant experience in process development chemistry, including critical data analysis (statistics/experimental design), scale‑up, and manufacturing support.
• Comprehensive knowledge and practical experience in laboratory and analytical work.

• Problem Solving:
  Ability to analyze complex and diverse situations creatively to generate and implement original solutions.
• Communication:
  Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills, with the ability to tailor information to diverse audiences.
• Networking:
  Proven ability to build and maintain internal and external networks, contributing constructively to team success.
• Physico‑chemical Awareness:
  Strong ability to apply physico‑chemical concepts to process development, utilizing specialized data analysis tools.

• Strong execution and results orientation.
• High level of judgment and self‑awareness.
• A continuous learning mindset and willingness to share knowledge in an open environment.
• Ability to establish trust and work effectively within a team.

• Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry.
• PhD advantageous, but not essential.
• Several years' experience working in a Process Chemistry role.

This role offers the chance to work in a science‑driven, industrial environment where your chemistry doesn't sit on a shelf — it goes into production. If you enjoy ownership, technical challenge, and seeing your work make a tangible impact, this is a role that will stretch and reward you.