Junior Lab Chemist (m/f/a)

About 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 20 different companies and employs over 8,000 people as of 2024.

Are you recently graduated?

Coesia Graduates Program is a dedicated learning and development path for fresh graduates, designed to support your first career steps within a leading global organization through a structured 2-year program.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. Our Graduates Program is designed to support individuals at the beginning of their professional careers. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences, regardless of age.

Why should you apply?

• Real-world projects with impact: you will collaborate with like-minded peers and tackle challenging projects, developing cutting-edge technology solutions, learning on the job since day one
• Professional development and training: you will enhance your technical and soft skills through dedicated learning & development initiatives
• Mentorship by industry leaders: you will gain invaluable insights from seasoned professionals who have successfully paved their paths in the engineering landscape
• Networking opportunities: you will forge lifelong connections with fellow engineers and industry experts, enabling you to establish meaningful relationships that will propel your career forward
• Recognition and reward: your contribution will be recognized. Coesia Graduates Program rewards those who consistently strive for excellence.

About the Role

The Junior Lab Chemist supports the development and testing of inkjet inks through practical laboratory tasks, including formulation preparation, pigment dispersion, sample processing, measurement, and print testing. This position is well‑suited to anyone who thrives in a laboratory environment, works accurately with instruments and procedures, and is eager to develop expertise in inkjet technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare lab-scale batches of UV-curable inkjet ink formulations and pigment dispersions to support R&D activities.
• Perform various measurements on dedicated equipment including viscosity, surface tension, and colorimetry for research and development purposes (training on all equipment and procedures will be provided.).
• Perform basic print tests (e.g., drawdowns) to support formulation evaluation.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of all experiments and results.
• Follow safe chemical handling and laboratory procedures at all times.
• Maintain clean and organized workspaces.
• Provide occasional support to Production by assisting with manual handling tasks of up to 30 kg.

What You Need to Be Successful

BSc/MSc (or apprenticeship equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, Materials Science, or related field.

• Previous internship or prior lab assistant experience in paint, ink, coatings, adhesives, or similar.
• Interest in formulation chemistry, coatings, inks, or materials.
• Ability to perform laboratory tasks with accuracy and consistency.
• Excellent documentation skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work with solvents, pigments, and lab equipment safely.
• Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety practices.
• Experience with any analytical instruments (e.g. viscometer, spectrophotometer).
• Basic knowledge of dispersion or colloid science.
• Familiarity with GMP or quality‑controlled laboratory environments.
• 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.

This is a full‑time laboratory position involving hands‑on work such as weighing chemicals, operating small‑scale equipment, and performing routine formulation tasks. The role requires the safe handling of solvents, pigments, and oligomers using appropriate PPE. You should also be comfortable with occasional lifting of containers (up to 30 kg). You will collaborate regularly with colleagues across R&D, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Production, contributing to a dynamic and integrated workflow.

If this sounds like a role that matches your passion and skills, we look forward to your application. Join in to fuel the next Coesia graduates wave – share your resume and make your mark!

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.