Lab Technician Polymer sciences in Zwijnaarde, Belgium

This is the role

The position aims to reinforce the physical chemical characterisation expertise of the European Technical Centre of Eastman Chemical in Ghent region in Belgium. The responsibility of the technician will consist in running physical, thermal and rheological tests as well as chemical characterisation of materials and/or Eastman polymers to support innovation projects of various Eastman Chemical Businesses. Type of applications will vary between evaluation of Eastman ingredients in formulations such as coatings, cosmetics, washing powder and detergents to polymer characterisation used in various markets such as automotive, packaging, medical application. Applicants who have a first experience in polymer testing (rheology, tensile tests, thermal testing like DSC) and characterization (NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis, GPC) and/or in rheology testing of formulation will be preferred.

This position is based in our European Technology Center in Ghent – Zwijnaarde en requires on-site presence

Typical tasks and responsibilities are

• Using general analytical techniques and instrumentation which is not limited to but includes: Rheometers (Rotational and/or DMA), Viscometers, Thermogravimetric analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Gel Permeation Chromatography, Infrared and UV-VIS Spectrometry, microscopy, …. • First responsibility and training will consist in evaluating Eastman Polymer materials (Polyester, Recycled Polyester, Cellulosic products, PVB) by thermal testing and eventually chemical characterization – job training will extend to use of rheology tools for support of various new innovative projects mostly in the field of formulations and circular economy programs. • Execute analyses and organize as well as prioritize experimental work based on timelines and objectives defined with internal stakeholders. • Assure suitability, accuracy, and reliability of test results and methods. • Define maintenance and calibration for instruments and devices; direct contact for the supplier for equipment trouble-shooting. • Ensure research results and method development is documented in technical reports, test methods, and/or laboratory notebooks, as appropriate. • Complying and promoting the Eastman Safety Culture and follow the safety rules applicable to our Analytical and Material Characterization Laboratories. Maintaining a clean work area in line with Eastman’s housekeeping standards.

This is what you bring

• A bachelor or master’s degree in polymer chemistry, plastic engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry with first hand-on experience in material testing • Candidate should have a good understanding of techniques in the field of rheology, thermal analysis, morphology and spectroscopy • Ideally the applicant will have a first hand-on experience in polymer and or formulation testing as well as a in at least one of those following techniques: rheometers, viscometers, DSC, TGA, FTIR, UV-Vis or GPC. • The ability to prioritize and schedule work to meet demands • Must be self-motivated, looking for ways to improve laboratory work processes, testing accuracy and safety. Consistently makes sound decisions based on data and anticipates problems. • Knowledge on Microsoft Office is preferred • Fluent in English both written and spoken is essential in this international work environment; knowledge of Dutch is preferred but not mandatory. • Must be able to communicate experimental results clearly to peers & supervision through email, verbal communication and/or concise report to internal customers • Ideal candidate is energized by non-routine work & innovation • Must be able to work with people having different personalities, cultures and different job functions.

Why choose Eastman?

It’s about growth and your long-term success. At Eastman, your career path can take many routes—each offering growth opportunities, competitive salary and benefits, and a globally growing work environment. Eastman fosters a culture of diversity steeped in teamwork and employee involvement, a place where dedicated individuals turn great ideas into materials that make a difference in everyday life. We support and encourage one another and believe that leveraging diversity in our thoughts and experiences allows us to excel in business.