Job Description

Who are we?
SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and Industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products and industrial chemicals they need with a guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the frontier of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continent's high GDP-contributing life sciences and industrials sectors. Rolfes Chemicals is part of (Solevo Group).
What are we looking for?

• We are seeking an experienced and dedicated, analytically minded detail-oriented Lab Technician to carry out formulations of paints and coatings products, conduct performance paint evaluations and offset raw materials, sample preparations and participate in commercial and technology transfer process activities to ensure secure product launches.
• The technician will conduct research and explore how products may be improved while furthering scientific knowledge to drive profitability.
• The lab technician's role, requires in depth knowledge of paint and coatings testing, including the methods used, equipment and laboratory systems.
• Job flexibility will be developed to ensure appropriate support of other roles at any time in the laboratory and will be expected to help with other work outside the department in a technical liaison role, when required.
• Lab technician will closely work with team members on paint formulations and testing as well as analytical and continuous improvement projects on a day-to-day basis.

What do we expect from the candidate?
Active Listening:

• Listening accurately and confirming the concern.
• Be comfortable leading as an active listener.
• Ask questions to confirm you understood the concern, timeline and align on a plan.
• Demonstrate active listening, by recording accurate appraisal notes, with clearly annotated follow up plans.
• Willingness to accept constructive critics and demonstrate an ability to reflect and recalibrate.

Good Communication:
Communicate with others effectively, and in a timely manner is crucial. Ability to communicate respectfully and concisely via diverse modes.

• Verbally in person and virtually.
• Visually through graphs, flow charts.
• Technically through spreadsheets and other analytical tools.

The key responsibilities:
Formulating

• Make formulations in support of product development in respect to CASE.

Testing

• Perform testing of critical to quality attributes for product performance and development.
• Perform testing from standard procedures.
• Prepare test formulations, conducting tests and advising and coordinating test procedures.
• Enter and modify formulas into formula data base as needed.

Communication

• Record, organize and report all development in a professional format and be able to presents findings.

Safety & Maintenance

• Follow all company and laboratory procedures.
• Maintain highest standard of housekeeping.
• Evaluate testing protocols and suggests improvements.
• Assure that all equipment is maintained and all chemicals are handled appropriately.

Additional Responsibilities

• Interact cross functionally with other divisions to support.
• Consult with Sales & Business Development on analysis, interpretation and findings of new product developments.
• Assist in evaluating and ensuring laboratory safety procedures and standard compliances.

If you possess...
Must-Have:

• Matric.
• 3-year tertiary qualifications in chemistry, chemical engineering, coating or closely related field with at least 3 years working experience in the following fields:

• Paint and coatings formulations, application and general property testing is required.
• Knowledge of Enamels, epoxies, polyurethane based, waterborne and solvent borne formulations.
• Knowledge of colorimetry, color science, rheology and basic polymer chemistry.

• Good organizational and record keeping skills.
• Good communication (written & verbal) with report writing and document reviewing skills.
• Ability to maintain self - control and work efficiently under pressure.

If you are...
Why join Rolfes Chemicals Solevo?

• Join a young dynamic team who is leading the chemical distribution on the African continent.
• Enjoy a collaborative, international and agile work environment.
• Be part of a team where freedom, initiative and 'thinking out of the box' is key.
• Opportunity to work in a growing versatile environment.
• Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits package.
• Explore opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Then, this job is for you!
How to join us?
If you're excited about this position, we encourage you to submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and be part of our exciting journey.
What's next ?
If your profile matches our search, you will be contacted by our HR team for a first contact.
Please be informed that we will keep your profile to contact you for future professional opportunities.
Join Solevo: Empowering Progress Across Africa
At Solevo, we connect communities and industries with the solutions they need to grow, thrive, and transform. From supporting agricultural self-sufficiency to driving industrial innovation, we are shaping the future of Africa's life sciences and industrial sectors.