Development Chemist – Inkjet Ink (m/f/a)
HAPA AGAbout Hapa
Hapa is a leading organization headquartered in Volketswil, Switzerland. As a key player in the late-stage customization and on-demand printing solutions, we specialize in the pharmaceutical packaging industry. Our business portfolio encompasses a wide range of innovative printing solutions, making blister packaging more flexible, less complex, and more cost- and waste-efficient. We strive to continuously expand our offerings and enhance our capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
For more detailed information about Hapa and its comprehensive business landscape, please visit www.hapa.ch.
Hapa is part of Coesia, a group of innovation-based industrial and packaging solutions companies operating globally, headquartered in Bologna, Italy. Coesia operates in 34 countries with 21 different companies and employs over 8,000 people as of 2025.
About the Role
The Development Chemist is responsible for the formulation, optimization, and scale-up of inkjet inks for industrial printing applications. This role involves hands-on formulation work, analytical testing, product stability studies, and cross-functional collaboration with production, quality, and application engineering teams. The ideal candidate has a strong background in chemistry or materials science and demonstrable experience with inkjet technologies, dispersions, pigments, and polymer/oligomer systems.
Main responsibilities
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Ink Formulation Development and Testing
Develop and optimize inkjet ink formulations according to application and customer specifications.Select and evaluate raw materials ensuring compliance with relevant regulatory and safety standards (e.g., food/ pharma packaging guidelines).Prepare test batches and carry out laboratory scale trials (60-70% hands-on in lab)Measure and analyse key physical properties (e.g., viscosity, surface tension, stability)Support patent searches and IP documentation for novel formulations
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Collaboration & Project Work
Prepare technical data sheets, test reports and technical updatesWork closely with Senior Development Chemist and Development Manager to deliver projects as well as results analysisWork closely with Senior Chemist & production teams to scale up formulationsCollaborate with application team and machine engineers to test ink, printer and substrate interactions.Interface with suppliers on raw material evaluations and technical improvements.Support customer trials and provide technical expertise during troubleshooting.
What You Need to Be Successful
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BSc or Master’s in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Colloid Science, or related field. PhD is nice to have
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2–5+ years of hands-on experience developing inks, coatings, dispersions, or similar formulated products.
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Experience with inkjet technology is highly desirable.
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Experience with pigment dispersion chemistry, dispersant selection, and stability optimization.
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Familiarity with UV-curable systems.
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Enjoy hands-on lab trials and tests 60-70%
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Strong experimental and analytical skills.
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Proficiency with lab instrumentation (rheometer, tensiometer, particle size analyzers).
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Knowledge of polymer/additive interactions and colloid chemistry.
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Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
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Strong documentation and communication abilities.
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Problem-solving mindset with a hands-on approach.
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Fluency in English is required; German is a plus
Our Offer
We offer an engaging and meaningful role within a highly collaborative team environment. At Hapa, you will join a modern, future focused workplace that provides opportunities for professional growth, including training programs, talent development initiatives, and supportive leadership. We value flat hierarchies, open communication, and a culture built on teamwork and mutual respect.
Join the Team!
If this sounds like a role that matches your passion and skills, we look forward to your application. Please note, that we only accept applicants with Swiss or EU/EFTA citizenship or applicants with an existing and valid residence and work permit for Switzerland.
Please submit your application via our career site, as email applications cannot be considered.
External agencies are kindly requested not to contact the company regarding this position.
Coesia is an equal-opportunity employer and embraces diversity and inclusion.