Product Technical Lead (Chemical / Science)

Product Technical Lead (Chemical / Science)

Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum, 15% bonus, life assurance x4. Location: Gloucester. Industry: Chemical/Materials Science. Contract: Permanent. Start date: 2026-06-15. Ref: J.

Are you a materials science expert with a passion for innovation, product development, and solving real-world engineering challenges? Do you have a chemical or scientific background? Would you like a role in an established global brand with career progression?

We develop advanced material solutions for critical infrastructure across the energy, automotive, marine, industrial, defence, and offshore sectors. We are looking for an experienced and ambitious Product Technical Lead to drive next generation specialist coating technologies.

Innovation & Opportunity

Innovation is at the heart of everything we do. This role will influence product strategy, technical development, and commercial success.

You will work alongside cross-functional teams including R&D, manufacturing, supply chain, and commercial operations to develop high-performance products that make a genuine impact.

You will lead new product development, support customers with technical expertise, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

The Opportunity

Oversee the full product lifecycle from concept and research through to manufacture, launch, and ongoing technical support. Ideal for someone who thrives in a technically challenging environment while balancing scientific expertise with commercial awareness and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development activities for innovative new products
• Provide technical leadership and support for existing product ranges
• Collaborate with customers and internal stakeholders to identify market needs and future opportunities
• Support manufacturing and production teams with technical guidance
• Work closely with supply chain teams to ensure product manufacturability and delivery
• Partner with sales and commercial teams to provide technical expertise and product insight
• Monitor product performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and regulations
• Manage product-related budgets, cost estimates, and capital expenditure tracking
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process optimisation
• Protect and document intellectual property generated during development
• Present project progress and technical outputs to senior leadership

Education

MSc in Chemistry or Material Science (or equivalent).

Ideal Experience

• Experience working with fireproof or coatings
• Knowledge of silicone or similar chemistry
• Experience with fabric coating technologies
• Strong understanding of product development and manufacturing processes
• Ability to work collaboratively across technical and commercial teams
• Commercial awareness with experience supporting costing and pricing decisions

What You'll Receive

• Salary up to £50,000 per annum (depending on experience)
• Discretionary annual bonus up to 15%
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Group personal pension scheme
• Life assurance scheme (4x annual salary)
• Comprehensive employee assistance programme
• 24/7 GP access, mental health support, and legal consultations
• Cycle to work scheme and leisure benefits
• Opportunity to work within a fast-growing, award winning global organisation

About AIS

A global leader in advanced materials technology, specialising in passive fire protection, insulation, buoyancy, and protection systems for mission critical infrastructure. Since 2007, AIS has grown from a UK based business to an international organisation with worldwide operations.

Our technologies protect people, assets, and infrastructure in some of the harshest and most safety critical environments on the planet.

Important Information

We endeavour to process your personal data in a fair and transparent manner. In applying for this role, Russell Taylor will be acting within your interest and will contact you in relation to the role, either by email, phone or text message. For more information see our Privacy Policy on our website. It is important you are aware of your individual rights and the provisions the company has put in place to protect your data.

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