Analytical Chemist
Sonoco · On-site
Reporting to the Packaging Sciences Team Lead, you will be a key member of the Packaging Sciences team, providing analytical chemistry expertise to support Sonoco’s products, manufacturing operations, suppliers and customers. You will play an important role in investigating technical challenges, generating high-quality analytical data, and delivering clear recommendations that support business decisions, problem solving and customer satisfaction.
Working closely with internal stakeholders, customers and suppliers, you will lead and contribute to investigations, interpret complex technical information, and help develop the analytical capabilities of the R&D function.
In this role, you will:
Provide analytical chemistry expertise and technical support across the business, delivering clear conclusions and recommendations through reports and stakeholder engagement.
Lead and coordinate investigations to support manufacturing sites, customers and R&D teams in resolving technical issues and complaints.
Develop and improve analytical methods and processes to enhance Sonoco’s testing capabilities and problem-solving expertise.
Conduct investigations relating to, food and water analysis, quality and process support for manufacturing sites, contaminant and foreign body identification, food contact regulatory compliance, taint and odour assessments, as well as other analytical chemistry projects using in-house or external laboratory resources
Generate accurate, reliable and traceable analytical data using a range of laboratory techniques.
Interpret technical results and produce timely reports with clear findings, conclusions and recommendations.
Maintain laboratory equipment to ensure it remains calibrated, serviced and fit for purpose.
Support laboratory housekeeping, quality standards and continuous improvement activities.
Share knowledge and provide technical guidance, training and support to colleagues and apprentices.
Manage sample workflows and laboratory records, ensuring full traceability and compliance with internal procedures.
Undertake additional responsibilities aligned to the scope and level of the role.
Skills Required
Essential:
BSc in Chemistry or equivalent
Experience of working with IC and ICP-OES
Previous experience of working in an analytical chemistry laboratory or food chemistry lab
General Laboratory Skills – wet chemistry, volumetric standards, chemical selection / disposal
Competent computing skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office
Good written and verbal communication skills (including the ability to present scientific data)
Ability to balance workload with on-the-job training
Commitment to safe-working requirements
Ability to work in a team
Self-motivated, reliable candidate with good time management skills
Autonomous and investigative approach
Desirable:
Higher degree with analytical chemistry focus or an allied subject
Previous experience in a contract laboratory
Experience of working with GCMS, DSC, FTIR
Experience working in food packaging, food production or protective metal coatings
Previous experience of mentoring junior lab members
Other European language skills
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We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.