Knauf stands for opportunity. We know that opportunity looks different to each person and we are proud that we see opportunity in everyone. This exciting role within Knauf Insulation in the Core R&D team could be the perfect next opportunity for you to build a unique career, in a values-led culture with a clear purpose of making tomorrow a home for all of us. As a Group we are a global manufacturer of construction materials and our 41,500 team members in 90 countries across 300 sites provide a huge opportunity for anyone with ambition and energy. We value everyone's contribution equally and we ask that you bring your whole self to work, to enrich the business further, as together we achieve more in a safe and inclusive environment.

Knauf Insulation is proud to be part of the Knauf Group. We have a 40-year heritage in manufacturing insulation and have big plans for the future. Our global reach in 40 countries continues to grow and we are looking for passionate, ambitious people to join our 6000-strong team and help us achieve our goals. We are all led by the same core values and believe in the powerful potential of large companies to have a positive impact on the world. 

The expansion of the R&D Department means we are now looking to recruit new Melting Laboratory Researcher in Visé, Belgium and reporting to the Glass & Melting Engineer.

Can you say ‘yes’?...

• Can you set a laboratory from scratch including selecting equipment and manage budget?
• Can you draft laboratory processes ?
• Can you run laboratory tests on raw materials and analyze the results?
• Can you maintain the safety requirement in a laboratory ?

As Melting Laboratory Researcher, you'd be responsible for establishing and managing a new laboratory dedicated to raw materials related to Glass and Melting technologies. You will conduct scientific tests, analyze results, and contribute to advancing research in glass production processes. 

What you’ll be doing:

From an organizational standpoint, you will:

• Develop and monitor the laboratory budget, ensuring expenditures stay within target limits.
• Handle the procurement of chemicals and laboratory furniture through SAP, while maintaining optimal stock levels.
• Oversee the scheduling and coordination of laboratory equipment maintenance.
• Select, purchase, and manage the installation of new laboratory equipment.
• Organize and lead technical discussions with suppliers, coordinating meetings and ensuring clear communication.
• Develop safety protocols for the laboratory and ensure that they are followed and maintained.

From a scientific standpoint, you will:

• Plan, execute, and analyze laboratory tests on raw materials, glass batches, and finished glass products.
• Process and interpret test results, ensuring data accuracy.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations to communicate findings.
• Develop and draft comprehensive laboratory test procedures.

What we’d love for you to have:

We are interested in you as a person; your attitude, behaviors and values. As long as you have the willingness to learn anything you need for the role that you don't already have, we'd love to speak to you. We're looking for someone who has 

• A science-based degree, minimum of a BA level (preferably in Engineering or Glass Chemistry).
• Ideally, 7 to 10 years of experience working in a mineral or glass laboratory environment.
• Fluency in both French and English (additional languages are a plus).
• Expertise in melting technologies and chemical products.
• Strong knowledge of analytical laboratory mineral chemistry.
• Proficiency in at least two laboratory techniques, such as:
  • Glass and Raw Materials Chemical Analysis (XRF, FTIR, etc.)
  • Thermal Analysis (TGA-DSC)
  • Particle Size Analysis (Laser Diffraction)
  • Crystal Identification (optical microscope, SEM-EDX, refractive index, etc.)
  • Powder Flowability
• Solid statistical knowledge, with experience using tools like Excel, Minitab, JMP, or similar software.
• Familiarity with SAP and MS Office.
• A self-driven, organized, and detail-oriented approach to work.

We will provide:

As this is a central, international position, the package and associated benefits will be those of the contract's host country. Our common criterion was to build a comprehensive salary package that stands out in the market.

On top of that, a dedicated time for personal development and potential for leadership training will be provided.

What happens next?

We appreciate that your time is precious and applying for a new job can be a lengthy process - so we have committed to replying to your application within five working days.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion (D&I) reinforces our Knauf Insulation values of Making Tomorrow a Home for all of us. We are committed to creating a workplace where we all can thrive, whoever we are, and inspiring a culture of inclusion and innovation that will drive future business success. We do our best to make sure being at work feels like home. To learn more about our business and culture go here (People & Culture - Knauf Insulation Western Europe)

If there are any other ways that you need to receive this job information, please contact us at dany.wolf@knaufinsulation.com