Careers: R&D Bio-based Technician

R&D Lab Technician - 1 Year - Oberwinterthur, Switzerland

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.  

Join our Bio-based R&D team within Chemtech division in Switzerland as R&D Lab Technician to help us take our Bio-based and Renewable Applications to the next level.

You will actively participate in diverse and exploratory work in the field of R&D to facilitate the technology development of sustainable processes for bio-based materials processing and production. Your tasks will include preparation and calibration of analytical instruments, synthesis and characterization of bio-polymers and bio-monomers, lab safety and management, execution of customer trials, and support of internal R&D projects.

Your main tasks and responsibilities:  

• Support lab-scale R&D Projects:
  • Conduct systematic lab-scale investigations on bio-polymer and bio-monomer synthesis with reactor size up to 5L.
  • Assist in sample characterization using standardized measurement methods. 
  • Present results at group meetings and summarize your work in the form of a report. 
• Support technology transitions from lab-scale to pilot-scale:
  • Assist in setting up and conducting pilot plant trials.
  • Provide technical expertise and troubleshoot issues during trials. 
• Support R&D engineers in the operation of pilot plants for the production of bio-based materials: 
  • Participating in continuous trials of the pilot plants, operating in shifts (around 5-10 days per month)
  • Participating occasionally in other bio-based and renewable innovation projects (such as application development / biofuels / chemicals / recycling) 
• Reactors and Equipment Management: 
  • Maintain and troubleshoot various machinery and equipment used in bio-based synthesis. 
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks to ensure equipment is in its optimal working conditions. 
  • Assist in the implementation of safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment. 
• Warehouse Management: 
  • Maintain and troiubleshoot various machinery and equipment used in bio-based synthesis. 
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks to ensure equipment is in optimal working conditions. 
  • Assist in the implementation of safety protocols and maintain a safe working environment. 

To succeed in this role, you will need: 

• University degree or equivalent higher-level education in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Sciences, or related field. 
• Previous experience as a laboratory technician and/or chemical production technician is advantageous. 
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and analytical instruments such as:
  • Chromatography techniques (e.g., GC, GPC, HPLC, +MS).
  • Tiration (Karl-Fisher) and other spectroscopio techniques (UV-Vis, FTIR) 
  • Thermal and rheological properties analysis (e.e. DSC, TGA, MFI, rheometer). 
  • Experience using lab-scale reactive extruder. 
• Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to effectively manage multiple tasks. 
• Team player with an outgoing personality, precise working style, and strong communication and presentation skills. 
• Proficiency in English.

What we offer you: 

• 1-year fixed-term contract offering a unique opportunity to growth in the bio-based field
• An innovative, vibrant and agile culture where you can contribute to a more sustainable future
• Excellent social benefits (holidays, pension fund etc.)
• Attractive employment conditions
• Access to a wide range of discounts on Everyday Shopping, Entertainment and Lifestyle

 No visa or work permit support can be provided for this role. 

Do you have a question about the role? 

Reach out to Alexi Donadoni at Our team is looking foward hearingfrom you

Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment. 
We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2025 in Brazil, China, Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.