R&D Lab Assistant

About AkzoNobel

Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance the fabric of everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.

For more information please visit www.akzonobel.com 

© 2024 Akzo Nobel N.V. All rights reserved.

R&D Laboratory Assistant – 12 months temporary contract
Felling
Competitive salary + benefits

Please note – this is not a graduate level position. We have other vacancies available that are suitable for graduates.
We welcome applications from people with relevant experience and transferable skills — even if you don’t meet every requirement. If this role sparks your interest, we’d love to hear from you.

At AkzoNobel, we’ve been pioneering colour, protection and performance for more than 200 years. Our Marine, Protective & Yacht (MPY) R&D teams develop cutting edge coating technologies that protect assets, support sustainability, and push innovation forward across global markets.
We’re committed to building diverse, inclusive teams that reflect the customers and communities we serve.

 About the Role
As a Technical Assistant II, you’ll play a hands on role supporting laboratory activities that contribute directly to new product development and ongoing improvements to our technologies. You will work closely with chemists, technologists and other R&D colleagues to manufacture test paints, run experiments, analyse results and help ensure smooth, efficient laboratory operations.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their technical or scientific career who enjoys practical lab work and wants to develop their skills within a global R&D environment.

 Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
•    Support the manufacture, testing and evaluation of coatings in the laboratory
•    Carry out routine and experimental paintmaking tasks under guidance
•    Plan and complete assigned laboratory activities on a weekly basis
•    Record results clearly and accurately using established systems
•    Communicate progress, issues and observations to your supervisor
•    Participate in factory based batch supervision or pilot production when required
•    Assist with trials, inspections and technical evaluations
•    Suggest opportunities for process, quality or efficiency improvements
•    Maintain a clean, organised and safe laboratory environment in line with H&S expectations

 What We’re Looking For
You don’t have to tick every box — we value enthusiasm, curiosity and willingness to learn.
Ideal candidates will bring:
•    Some experience in a scientific, laboratory, manufacturing or technical environment
•    Basic understanding of paint, coatings, materials science or a related area — or a strong interest in developing this knowledge
•    Ability to follow procedures, run standard tests and handle materials safely
•    Good communication skills and a proactive approach
•    Strong attention to detail, organisation and a safety first mindset

Education:
•    Secondary education or equivalent

What Makes This Role a Great Opportunity
•    Build hands on laboratory skills within a global R&D function
•    Work alongside experienced scientists and learn from industry experts
•    Contribute to real product development and improvement projects
•    Grow your technical career within a supportive, development focused environment

Why AkzoNobel?
We offer:
•    Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
•    Pension, life assurance and income protection
•    Wellbeing and mental health support
•    Flexible benefits tailored to your lifestyle
•    A culture centred on inclusion, development and work–life balance
•    Access to global learning and career progression opportunities

At AkzoNobel, we believe diverse teams make stronger decisions, drive innovation and create better outcomes. If you’re practical, curious and eager to develop, we encourage you to apply — even if you’re not sure you meet every single requirement.

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At AkzoNobel we are highly committed to ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace where all employees can be their best self. We strive to embrace diversity in a context of tolerance. Our talent acquisition process plays an integral part in this journey, as setting the foundations for a diverse environment. For this reason we train and educate on the implications of our Unconscious Bias in order for our TA and hiring managers to be mindful of them and take corrective actions when applicable. In our organization, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age or disability.

Requisition ID: 52631