Chemist / Technical Specialist - Alberton at AkzoNobel

Job Purpose

• To provide assistance of a technical nature to the factory, the sales team and our customers. To assist in advancing the culture of continuous improvement and related methodologies (Lean (Project Management), Six Sigma, ALPS (Continuous Improvement Program) with a key focus on manufacturing and operations, in order to affect cost savings, improve customer service and enhance company profitability.  

Key Accountabilities

• Match new colours for customers in the required product range, using standard product formulating techniques. Create and maintain these formulations and test specifications on Product Vision.
• Conduct development and testing work on new technology products, identified raw materials, new manufacturing processes and novel technology applications as directed by local business requirements.
• Work closely with the Factory Management team to enhance standard processes by employing continuous improvement methodologies.
• Conduct evaluation on the performance of company and competitor products, applications and processes.
• Assist with the investigation and resolution of customer complaints and in-plant rejects .Participate in the PGR (Performance Gap Review) and NCR (Non Conformance Reporting) processes to enhance continuous improvement in works instructions and process steps.
• Assist QC with testing procedures that are beyond the scope of documented test instructions. Includes Resicoat testing and auxilliary material risk assessments.
• Assist QC and factory with first time batch production and the associated scale up processes with a view to having all formulations classified as ”Mix & Drop”.
• Housekeeping and calibration and maintenance of all relevant items of laboratory equipment.
• HSE&S tasks and responsibilities. Participation in PSM (Process Safety Management) program, Hazard studies and PHR (Periodic Hazard Review).
• Participation with all BBS (Behavioural Based Safety) activities.
• Ensuring the requirements of the QHSE policy and associated procedures are complied with.
• Attend all mandatory HSE&S training.

Experience & Role Requirements

• Tertiary technical qualification in relevant field e.g. Chemistry, Chemical Technology, Process Engineering, etc.
• Training and experience in continuous improvement methods.
• Training and experience in Process Management
• Training and experience in Project Management would be an advantage
• Excellent Computer skills – MS Word, Excel, Outlook
• SAP experience would be an advantage
• Completion of the relevant SAPMA/ BCF training modules would be an advantage as would experience in the coatings sector
• Must be able to multitask and work under pressure
• Self motivation and strong results driven orientation will be required
• Communication, report writing & networking skills will be crucial.