Lab Technician Coatings

This is the role

The position will support Eastman Chemical Company's Coatings business with responsibility for providing laboratory technical support for the high-quality raw materials that Eastman supplies into the global paint and coatings industry.  Ideally the applicant will have some laboratory technical expertise in the coatings industry.  Applicants who have a good understanding of coatings (wall, automotive, aerospace, ink) are preferred.  An ability to be able to spray apply coatings is also preferred.

This position is located in our European Technology Center in Zwijnaarde (Ghent) and requires on-site pressence.

Responsibilities are

• Attending safety meeting/activities, carrying out safety inspections, complying and promoting the Eastman Safety Culture.
• Formulating Eastman’s raw materials into coatings applications for testing.
• Carrying out chemical and physical testing of chemical raw materials and end products.
• Organizing and prioritizing experimental work based on timelines and objectives outlined by supervision.
• Documenting and reporting laboratory work.
• Handling of chemicals (receiving & shipping).
• Preparing and submitting samples for physical and analytical testing.
• Carrying out laboratory equipment operation & maintenance.
• Assisting Application Development and Technical Service personnel in providing training and demonstrations.
• Working with vendors to ensure that chemicals, equipment and consumables are available for smooth laboratory operations.
• Maintains a clean work area in line with Eastman’s housekeeping standards.
• Addresses customer complaints.

This is what you bring

• Education - A master or bachelor degree in chemistry, applied or analytical chemistry, biochemistry or a related scientific subject.
• Experience/Job Knowledge/Expertise - Ideally the applicant will have some expertise in the coatings industry.  
• Expertise in inks, architectural or industrial coatings such as wall, automotive, aerospace coatings.
• Judgment –Ability to plan laboratory work in accordance with the requirements of the supervisor. Make some conclusions on the laboratory results obtained. Ensure that materials & equipment are available when laboratory testing is required. Notify peers and supervision when issues related to laboratory safety are being observed.
  Initiative – Must be self-motivated, looking for ways to improve laboratory work processes, testing accuracy and safety.
• Technical Skills – Good knowledge in coatings formulation including handling and blending of chemicals.
• Must have the ability to perform the calculations required for formulation work. A good understanding of solvent and water borne coatings and coating spray applications would be preferred.
• Computer Skills – Microsoft Office and statistical analysis software is preferred.
• Language Skills – Fluent in Dutch and English both written and spoken.  A knowledge of other European languages although not required is ideal.
• Communication Skills – Must be able to communicate experimental results clearly to peers & supervision through email, verbal communication and/or concise report. Required to update research notebook clearly and promptly.
• Teamwork – Must be able to work with people having different personalities and different job functions. Have a flexible and adaptable attitude.

Why choose Eastman?

• You will join a successful international company with enthusiastic colleagues and people-oriented leaders, where independence and personal growth are strongly encouraged.
• We like to invest in our people and offer various learning opportunities.
• Eastman provides an inclusive work environment where all employees can be themselves, regardless of gender, religion, or ethnic background.
• In addition to an attractive base salary, you can count on interesting benefits such as meal vouchers of €10, eco-vouchers and a top-of-the-market collective insurance package: hospitalization insurance, outpatient care insurance, group insurance.
• Attractive leave arrangement. In addition to the 20 statutory days, you are also entitled to 18 days of working time reduction.