Integrated Plastics Packaging logo

Ink Chemist

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Full time
On-site

Job description

Apply now
Key Responsibilities
Ink Formulation & Color Matching
  • Develop, formulate, and adjust solvent-based, water-based, and specialty inks for flexible packaging applications.
  • Perform accurate color matching according to customer standards, Pantone references, and approved samples.
  • Maintain color consistency across production batches.
  • Optimize ink formulations to achieve desired print performance and cost efficiency.
Quality Control & Testing
  • Conduct laboratory testing of inks for viscosity, shade, adhesion, gloss, rub resistance, and other quality parameters.
  • Analyze and resolve ink-related quality issues during printing and conversion processes.
  • Approve ink batches before release to production.
  • Maintain records of test results, formulations, and quality reports.
Production Support
  • Provide technical support to Printing, Lamination, and Quality departments regarding ink performance.
  • Investigate print defects such as color variation, poor adhesion, mottling, pinholes, and drying issues.
  • Recommend corrective and preventive actions for ink-related problems.
  • Monitor ink consumption and wastage and suggest improvements.
Research & Development
  • Support the development of new ink formulations and products.
  • Evaluate new raw materials, pigments, resins, and additives.
  • Participate in product trials and customer qualification processes.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to ink quality and productivity.
Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations related to handling inks, solvents, pigments, and chemicals.
  • Follow GMP, ISO, food packaging, and customer-specific requirements.
  • Maintain proper storage and inventory control of ink raw materials.
  • Ensure laboratory equipment is calibrated and maintained.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related field.
  • Additional certifications in printing inks, coatings, or color technology are advantageous.
Experience
  • 3–7 years of experience in ink formulation, color matching, or ink quality control within the flexible packaging, printing, or converting industry.
  • Experience with rotogravure and/or flexographic printing processes preferred.
  • Knowledge of solvent-based, water-based, and PU-based ink systems.
Skills & Competencies
  • Strong knowledge of ink chemistry, pigments, resins, and solvents.
  • Expertise in color matching and color measurement systems.
  • Understanding of flexible packaging substrates such as BOPP, PET, PE, CPP, and Foil.
  • Knowledge of printing and converting processes.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Laboratory testing and documentation skills.
  • Attention to detail and quality-focused mindset.
  • Proficiency in MS Office and laboratory reporting systems.
Apply for this job
View all jobs