With innovation being at the core of Sika values the Research and Development department plays a pivotal role in the continuous success of the organisation. As of 2024 there are 1,780 employees dedicated to R&D across 80 Technology Centres around the globe. This powerful force generated 108 patents in 2023 alone as a testimony of its ability to radically innovate in all core technologies where Sika is active. The Technology Centre at Welwyn Garden City is dedicated to Concrete Systems, Cementitious Systems and Data Science and is very active both nationally and internationally across all three areas.

The main objective of the role of R&D Chemist is to independently participate in maintaining the technological advantage of our product and service offering through leading and managing developmental and maintenance projects. Strong focus is placed on sustainability to ensure that our offering sets the industrial standard in this category.

What’s In it for You?

The Opportunity:  

• You will develop excellent understanding of the chemistry and technology of cement and cementitious systems.
• You will master the principles of project management in a busy ambitious market leading organisation.
• You will be part of an innovation team with an excellent track record of identifying, developing and deploying cutting edge technologies and services.
• If you are enthusiastic about sustainability then this position is right for you.

The Rewards:

You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, and a sweep of great benefits. We pride ourselves on our total reward package:

• Holiday 25 days rising to 28 days with service, plus bank holidays
• Core Hours Working
• A company pension contribution of up to 10%
• Private healthcare for you, with option to add family
• Group life cover at 6 × your annual salary
• Global Income Protection (PHI)
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Staff discount platform & Cycle to Work scheme
• Dedicated Service Awards for reaching key milestones
• Selected discounted Sika products

The Support:

As this role requires a deep knowledge of Sika’s internal working processes, both in R&D and infrastructure, you will be trained in these processes with full support from our existing team. We are a small team who prioritise satisfaction and excellence in our work, and we will do our utmost to ensure that you are content in your role, accommodating for your needs. We aim to foster an honest and democratic culture, where all voices are equally important, and everyone is treated with respect.

The Skills:

This role requires a significant commitment to professional and personal development from day one. You will be first and foremost required to be an excellent team player with a proactive interdependent attitude. You will be required to effectively handle numerous projects relevant to product development and technical service (both internal and external). Your excellent interpersonal skills will be essential in maintaining productive relationships with key stakeholders across multiple departments within the organisation as well as customers and material suppliers.

The Future: 

Potential Career Routes: Senior Project Leader, Team Leader

The opportunity to progress within a global company across a variety of business areas.