Graduate Development Chemist

Company
Hydrokem Aerosols Ltd
Location
Birkenhead CH41 1JH
Job type
Permanent, Full-time
Experience
graduate

About Hydrokem Aerosols Ltd

Hydrokem Aerosols are located on the Wirral and specialise in the manufacture of aerosol and bag on valve products. We supply to a wide range of market sectors including personal care, healthcare/medical devices, veterinary, household, automotive and technical.

Hydrokem Aerosols is a part of Clinimed Holding Limited, a group of companies founded in 1982 following the acquisition and formation of number of additional companies within the group.

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented Development Chemist with 2–3 years of industry experience to support the formulation and development of aerosol-based products.

The role involves working with pressurised systems, including propellant selection, formulation stability, and packaging compatibility, to deliver safe, compliant, and high-performing products across a range of sectors including medical, personal care, household, and industrial applications.

The successful candidate will collaborate within the technical team to develop innovative and cost-effective solutions that meet both business and customer requirements.

This role also provides a pathway into senior formulation or aerosol specialist positions, offering opportunities to develop expertise in advanced aerosol delivery systems, sustainability initiatives (e.g., low-VOC or alternative propellants), and regulatory leadership.

Benefits

  • Contributory Pension Scheme (5% Employer Contribution, Increasing up to 10% with Service)
  • Medical Cash Back Plan (Simply Health)
  • Life Assurance (4 x Annual Gross)
  • Annual Performance Bonus
  • Annual Pay Review
  • Onsite Free Car Parking
  • Cycle to Work Scheme.
  • Employee Referral Scheme
  • Employee Assistance Programme – Health & Wellbeing
  • Training & Development Opportunities
  • 25 Annual Holidays plus Bank Holidays and One Company Holiday (and Christmas Shutdown)

Main Duties & Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and optimise aerosol formulations (e.g., sprays, foams, and mousses) to meet performance, quality, and cost targets.
  • Conduct laboratory testing to evaluate product performance, stability, and compatibility with propellants and packaging components.
  • Support product scale-up from laboratory to pilot and full production, including participation in filling trials and process validation.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and prepare clear technical reports.
  • Assist in troubleshooting formulation and production issues, supporting timely resolution of technical challenges.
  • Stay up to date with developments in aerosol technologies, raw materials, and relevant regulatory requirements.
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, and regulatory functions.
  • Ensure all activities comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.
  • Continuously review scientific literature and industry trends to support innovation and improvement.

Personal Specifications

  • Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
  • 2–3 years’ industry experience in aerosols, coatings, personal care, FMCG, or related formulation environments.
  • Hands-on experience in formulation development and laboratory testing.
  • Strong understanding of formulation chemistry and physical chemistry principles.
  • Knowledge of analytical techniques (e.g., viscosity, particle size, spray pattern analysis) and instrumentation such as FTIR.
  • Experience with aerosol systems, including propellants, valves, and packaging components.
  • Strong problem-solving and data analysis skills with the ability to interpret results effectively.
  • High attention to detail with strong organisational and documentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
  • Good communication skills with awareness of relevant regulations (e.g., CLP, REACH, VOC, TDG) and testing methods (desirable)

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Birkenhead CH41 1JH: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

  • Do you currently require, or will you require in the future, sponsorship to work in the UK?

Work authorisation:

  • United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person

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