R&D Assistant - Construction Chemicals

About the role

Sika, a specialty chemicals company serving the building and motor vehicle sectors, is hiring a full-time R&D Assistant in Nairobi. The role supports the formulation and testing of construction chemical products such as admixtures, mortars, grouts, sealants and coatings.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in the formulation and modification of construction chemical products.
• Prepare laboratory samples of admixtures, mortars, grouts, sealants, coatings and related products.
• Carry out routine physical and chemical testing according to established procedures.
• Support scale-up trials and pilot batch production.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure calibration schedules are followed.
• Maintain detailed laboratory records and test reports.
• Help prepare technical data sheets (TDS) and safety data sheets (SDS).
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and chemical handling guidelines, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Assist in on-site product trials, support the technical service team with product performance evaluations, and help investigate product complaints and root cause analysis.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Materials Science or a related field.
• 2 to 4 years of laboratory experience, preferably in construction chemicals, cement or building materials.
• Knowledge of cement chemistry and polymer-modified systems is an advantage.

What we offer

• Competitive salary aligned with local market benchmarks and the scope of the role.
• Compensation set according to skills, education and training.