R&D Engineer/Technician – UV Curing & Coating Industry

Position Overview

The ambition is to contribute to the business profitable top line growth and position in Flooring coating as a recognized specialty leader in protective and decorative coatings mainly focused on applications like flooring, panels and others. An R&D chemist plays a crucial role in developing, testing, and optimizing coating products specifically designed for surfaces. They work in collaboration with cross-functional teams to innovate and improve coatings that enhance surface durability, aesthetics, and performance across various applications (Flooring, Cladding, Terrace, furniture, construction, etc.). This role is critical in developing coatings that meet the aesthetic and performance demands of both residential and commercial markets while also addressing environmental and regulatory considerations.

Key responsibilities

1. Product Development:

   • Lead the formulation and development of new coating products like varnishes, stains, and sealants, including UV-cured, water-based, finishes.

   • Innovate and improve existing products to meet market demands, regulatory standards, and sustainability goals.

   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, production, and quality control, to ensure that products meet customer expectations and production efficiency.
      

2. Research and testing:

   • Conduct research on raw materials, including resins, pigments, solvents, and additives, to enhance product performance (wear resistance, chemical resistance, UV stability, and moisture protection).

   • Develop and execute test protocols to evaluate coating properties such as adhesion, durability, appearance, and resistance to environmental factors (e.g., UV, moisture, abrasion, look and touch).

   • Analyse test results and adjust formulations to achieve optimal performance in cost and properties.
      

3. Regulatory Compliance:

   • Support regulatory compliance by Safety data sheet authoring and labelling compliance

   • Ensure that all products comply with relevant environmental and safety regulations, including VOC (volatile organic compounds) limits.

   • Keep up-to-date with industry standards and certifications, such as ISO, ASTM, and REACH, and ensure that products are in compliance.
      

4. Sustainability Initiatives:

   • Lead efforts to develop eco-friendly and sustainable coating products, including UV-based (focus), water-based, and low-VOC formulations.

   • Evaluate and integrate renewable and biodegradable raw materials into product formulations.
      

5. Project Management:

   • Manage multiple R&D projects simultaneously, from concept through commercialization, ensuring timely delivery and within budget.

   • Prepare detailed technical reports and documentation for internal use and external regulatory submissions.
      

6. Technical Support:

   • Provide technical support to manufacturing teams during scale-up and production processes.

   • Assist sales and marketing teams with technical information and presentations for clients.

   • Address customer inquiries and complaints related to product performance and provide solutions.
      

Skills and Qualifications

1. Education:

   • Degree in Chemistry BAC+2 to BAC+5, Bachelor or Master Degree: Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or a related field.
      

2. Experience:

   • Minimum 2 years of experience in R&D, particularly in UV coatings for water-based and UV-based products, or related industries.

   • Proven experience with wood coatings is highly desirable.
      

3. Technical Skills:

   • Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, coating formulation, and application techniques.

   • Deep understanding of UV coatings, including the chemistry of resins, solvents, pigments, and additives, and the ability to formulate and optimize products.

   • Knowledge of the interaction between materials and coating materials, including if possible the effects of different wood types and environmental conditions.

   • Skilled in identifying potential risks in product development and implementing contingency plans.

   • Experience with regulatory standards and safety protocols in the coatings industry.
      

4. Soft Skills:

   • Capable of analysing complex technical problems, drawing insights from data, and developing practical solutions to enhance product performance.

   • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to innovate within constraints.

   • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, for technical and non-technical audiences.

   • Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams.
      

Work Environment

• Typically works in a laboratory setting, with occasional visits to production facilities and customer sites.
• May be required to travel for conferences, industry events, or client meetings.
• Capacity to communicate in English.
   

Key Competencies

• Customer-focused approach with a commitment to delivering high-quality products to ensure the top line growth in UV Business.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Innovative mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
   

We offer

• A challenging and varied full-time position with appropriate autonomy and responsibility.

• In a healthy and growing company, where employees are central and where a sense of initiative is valued.

• A complete training keeps you up to date with the latest techniques and products.

• An attractive salary with extra social benefits.

• Nice and modern environment to work in.
   

Sounds interesting?

Don't hesitate to get in touch: hr@ciranova.be