Lubrizol Corporation
Process Technology Chemist Student Placement 2027 -2028

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Process Technology Chemist – Student Placement
Location: Blackley, Manchester, UK
Job Type: Full-Time Student Placement (Industrial Placement Year)
How You'll Make an Impact
As a Process Technology Chemist – Student Placement, you will gain hands-on experience in polymer synthesis, process development, and the scale-up of innovative specialty chemical products. Working within our Process Technology team, you will support the development and manufacture of polymeric dispersants used in paints, inks, and plastics applications.
This placement offers exposure to the full product development lifecycle, from laboratory synthesis through to manufacturing implementation and application testing, providing a unique opportunity to see how scientific innovation translates into commercial success.
In this role, you will:
- Synthesize and develop novel polymeric dispersants for paints, inks, and plastics applications.
- Produce larger-scale samples suitable for customer trials while ensuring processes remain scalable and meet quality standards.
- Support the introduction and implementation of new products and manufacturing processes within production facilities.
- Maintain accurate electronic laboratory notebooks and comprehensive records of experimental work and findings.
- Analyse data and communicate project progress and results through team meetings and formal project reviews.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including research, applications, and manufacturing groups to advance product development programmes.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on process efficiency, product quality, and innovation.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Required Qualifications that Enable Your Success
- Currently studying towards a degree in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline that includes a year in industry.
- Expected to achieve a 2:1 degree classification or above.
- Completion of at least two years of undergraduate study before commencing the placement.
- Practical laboratory experience gained through university studies, internships, or previous work placements.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects effectively.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
- Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, accuracy, and scientific integrity.
- Eligibility to work in the UK for the duration of the placement and must not have graduated before the placement start date.
Preferred Qualifications that Drive You Forward
- A strong interest in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and process development.
- Understanding of polymer synthesis techniques and structure-property relationships.
- Interest in scaling laboratory technologies for commercial manufacturing.
- Experience interpreting experimental results and developing evidence-based recommendations.
- Knowledge of laboratory health, safety, and good manufacturing practices.
Your Work Environment
At Lubrizol, safety is our top priority. In this role, your work environment may include:


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- Working within laboratory and pilot-scale manufacturing environments.
- Handling chemicals and operating laboratory equipment in accordance with strict safety procedures.
- Using digital tools and software for data analysis, reporting, and project documentation.
- Collaborating with research, applications, and manufacturing teams across the business.
- Participating in project meetings and technical reviews with colleagues from multiple disciplines.
- Supporting activities that ensure the safe and efficient operation of laboratories and manufacturing facilities.
Benefits that Empower You
- Competitive salary.
- Discretionary bonus.
- Generous annual leave entitlement, including bank holidays.
- Competitive pension scheme.
- Flexible working hours.
- On-site gym and restaurant facilities.
- Free on-site parking.
- Learning and development opportunities within a global organisation.
- Exposure to world-class scientists, researchers, and manufacturing professionals.
Shape the Future with Us
At Lubrizol, you'll be empowered to solve meaningful challenges through science and innovation. This placement will provide practical experience in polymer synthesis, process technology, and manufacturing scale-up while helping you build the technical and professional skills needed for a successful career in the chemical industry.
You'll work on real business projects, collaborate with experienced scientists and engineers, and gain a deeper understanding of how innovative products are developed, tested, and successfully brought to market.
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