R&D Bio- Technician

R&D Lab Technician – 1 Year – Oberwinterthur, Switzerland

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.

Join our Bio‑based R&D team within Chemtech division in Switzerland as R&D Lab Technician to help us take our Bio‑based and Renewable Applications to the next level.

You will actively participate in diverse and exploratory work in the field of R&D to facilitate the technology development of sustainable processes for bio‑based materials processing and production. Your tasks will include preparation and calibration of analytical instruments, synthesis and characterization of bio‑polymers and bio‑monomers, lab safety and management, execution of customer trials, and support of internal R&D projects.

• Support lab‑scale R&D Projects
  • Conduct systematic lab‑scale investigations on bio‑polymer and bio‑monomer synthesis with reactor size up to 5L.
  • Assist in sample characterization using standardized measurement methods.
  • Present results at group meetings and summarize your work in the form of a report.
• Support technology transitions from lab-scale to pilot-scale
  • Assist in setting up and conducting pilot plant trials.
  • Provide technical expertise and troubleshoot issues during trials.
• Support R&D engineers in the operation of pilot plants for the production of bio‑based materials
  • Participating in continuous trials of the pilot plants, operating in shifts (around 5–10 days per month)
  • Participating occasionally in other bio‑based and renewable innovation projects (such as application development ÷ biofuels ÷ chemicals ÷ recycling)
• Reactors and Equipment Management
  • Maintain and troubleshoot various machinery and equipment used in bio‑based synthesis.
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks to ensure equipment is in its optimal working conditions.
  • Assist in the implementation of safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment.
• Warehouse Management
  • Maintain and troiubleshoot various machinery and equipment used in bio‑based synthesis.
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks to ensure equipment is in optimal working conditions.
  • Assist in the implementation of safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment.

• University degree or equivalent higher‑level education in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Sciences, or related field.
• Previous experience as a laboratory technician and/or chemical production technician is advantageous.
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and analytical instruments such as:
  • Chromatography techniques (e.g., GC, GPC, HPLC, +MS).
  • Tiration (Karl‑Fisher) and other spectroscopio techniques (UV‑Vis, FTIR)
  • Thermal and rheological properties analysis (e.g. DSC, TGA, MFI, rheometer).
  • Experience using lab‑scale reactive extruder.
• Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to effectively manage multiple tasks.
• Team player with an outgoing personality, precise working style, and strong communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in English.

• 1‑year fixed‑term contract offering a unique opportunity to growth in the bio‑based field
• An innovative, vibrant and agile culture where you can contribute to a more sustainable future
• Excellent social benefits (holidays, pension fund etc.)
• Attractive employment conditions
• Access to a wide range of discounts on Everyday Shopping, Entertainment and Lifestyle

No visa or work permit support can be provided for this role.

Reach out to Alexi Donadoni at . Our team is looking forward hearing from you!

Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.

We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2025 in Brazil, China, Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.