Sibelco is a global leader in material solutions. Sibelco mines, processes and sells specialty industrial minerals – particularly silica, clays, feldspathics and olivine – and is a leader in glass recycling. Sibelco’s solutions support the progress of modern life and serve industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction, coatings, polymers and water purification. The Sibelco Group has production facilities in more than 30 countries and a team of some 5,000 people.
We are currently seeking a Chemist to join our team in Maastricht, focusing on polymers and coatings applications.
Role Purpose:
As part of the commercial team, you will provide technical support to our markets, helping customers optimize their use of mineral solutions in a wide range of polymer and coating applications. This includes hands-on lab work, customer-facing technical service, and fast-paced product development driven by market and customer needs. We are looking for someone who consistently goes one step further—proactively developing new lab processes, exploring innovative approaches, and pushing boundaries to deliver impactful solutions.
The key responsibilities for this position are:
- Conduct laboratory testing and analysis related to inorganic minerals and their use in polymer and coating applications. This includes techniques such as X-ray Fluorescence, Thermogravimetric Analysis, Oil absorption, particle size analysis and Nitrogen Absorption amongst others as well as polymer compounding and evaluation of mechanical, optical, and thermal/electrical properties.
- Interpret test results using standard and adapted methodologies; connect findings to guide further research and development..
- Provide technical service and support to customers, including troubleshooting and application guidance.
- Lead small-scale development projects, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery within scope and budget.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams across departments to drive innovation and share insights.
- Engage in customer conversations to understand needs and translate them into technical solutions.
- Explore new ideas and applications with an open mindset, adapting quickly to changing priorities and market demands.
- Maintain a safe working environment and liaise with maintenance staff on equipment upkeep.
- Stay up to date with industry trends and testing protocols relevant to polymer and coating applications.
- Holds a Master’s degree in Material Science, Chemistry, Geology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; or a Bachelor’s degree with 3–5 years of relevant experience.
- Has hands-on experience in polymer compounding and coating formulation.
- Possesses knowledge of mineral fillers and their role in performance enhancement.
- Is curious and open to learning about new applications and technologies.
- Thrives in dynamic environments and can adapt to a wide range of application areas.
- Enjoys collaborating across departments and engaging with customers.
- Demonstrates strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Communicates effectively and enjoys sharing knowledge across teams.
- Works safely and responsibly.
- Is fluent in English.
We offer a competitive salary including 25 vacation days, 9 ATV days, a year-end bonus of 8,33%, a pension plan, and the possibility to participate in the bicycle plan and company fitness.
If you are interested in this position, please send your resume and motivation letter to Najib Loiazizi (Business Partner HR) at [email protected].
For more information about the position, feel free to contact Mart Verheijen or Sara Marina Barbier at +31 (0)6 22184904 / +31 (0)6 82926265.
Sibelco recognise the strength of our diverse global workforce and value difference and inclusion for all. Our rich mix of people bring an exciting exchange of ideas and knowledge to keep us moving forward and innovating new solutions. We seek talent of all backgrounds and abilities and continue to develop our leaders and our culture to help all employees to grow and reach their full potential.