Looking For Chemist / Senior Chemist

Role & responsibilities

Job Summary:

To ensure consistent quality of raw materials, in-process products, and finished particle boards through chemical and physical testing, process monitoring, and adherence to quality standards and environmental regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Raw Material Testing

• Conduct chemical and physical tests on wood particles, resin, wax, hardener, and other additives used in particle board production.
• Check the moisture content, particle size distribution, and resin solid content as per standard specifications.
• Maintain records of incoming raw material quality and report deviations.

2. Process Control & Monitoring

• Monitor resin preparation and ensure correct resin formulation and viscosity.
• Conduct in-process checks during mat forming, pressing, and curing stages to ensure board uniformity and bonding quality.
• Coordinate with production to adjust process parameters when quality deviations are observed.

3. Finished Product Testing

• Perform tests on finished boards for:
• Density and moisture content
• Internal Bond Strength (IB)
• Modulus of Rupture (MOR) & Modulus of Elasticity (MOE)
• Thickness Swelling (TS) and Water Absorption (WA)
• Surface soundness and screw holding capacity
• Ensure compliance with IS standards (IS 3087 / IS 12823) or customer specifications.

4. Quality Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain daily test logs, QC reports, and calibration records.
• Prepare COA (Certificate of Analysis) for dispatch batches.
• Participate in internal and external audits (ISO, FSC, etc.).

5. Continuous Improvement

• Analyze test data and suggest corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) for recurring quality issues.
• Support R&D and process teams in resin formulation optimization or introduction of new materials.

6. Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all laboratory operations follow safety, environmental, and housekeeping standards.
• Properly handle and dispose of chemicals as per safety protocols.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong analytical and testing skills
• Familiarity with lab equipment (viscometer, universal testing machine, etc.)
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation
• Good communication and teamwork abilities
• Proficiency in MS Office and lab data management

Safety Measures:

• Operate machines strictly as per SOP / Work Instructions
• Perform pre-start safety checks (guards, interlocks, E-stop)
• Follow LOTO / permit systems when applicable
• Stop work & inform supervisor if unsafe conditions near miss arise