QC Chemist – Quality Control in Coatings

About the role

We are seeking a QC Chemist to join a leading premium coatings manufacturer in Greater Manchester. The role is laboratory‑based, focusing on quality control testing, batch approval support and technical problem‑solving across raw materials, intermediates and finished products.

Key responsibilities

• Perform QC assessments on incoming raw materials, in‑process items and finished goods to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Carry out laboratory evaluations including colour, viscosity, density, pH, gloss, opacity, drying characteristics, adhesion, stability and application performance testing.
• Support batch release by interpreting test data, identifying deviations and flagging quality concerns.
• Investigate manufacturing, product quality and customer‑related issues, helping to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Assist with colour verification, tint accuracy checks and shade correction to maintain product consistency.
• Produce test panels, drawdowns and application samples for visual and functional performance assessment.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, specifications and documentation in line with company procedures.
• Calibrate, verify and maintain laboratory instruments to ensure reliable, reproducible results.
• Liaise with production, technical and commercial teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven industrial QC experience using wet chemistry techniques, preferably within paints, coatings or related chemical manufacturing.
• Ability to interpret analytical data, identify deviations and communicate findings effectively.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining rigorous documentation standards.
• Team‑oriented mindset with the ability to collaborate across multiple functions.

Required skills

• Wet chemistry techniques
• Colour measurement
• Viscosity measurement
• Density measurement
• pH testing
• Gloss testing
• Opacity testing
• Drying characteristics assessment
• Adhesion testing
• Stability testing
• Application performance testing
• Laboratory instrument calibration and verification

What we offer

• Permanent contract with a 39‑hour week (Mon‑Thu 8:30‑17:00, Fri 8:30‑16:00).
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Opportunity to work for an established, high‑performance coatings manufacturer.
• Professional development within a technical laboratory environment.