As a Software Engineer specializing in process systems and automation at Synthomer, your day-to-day work will be highly dynamic and deeply integrated with physical plant operations. You will not be coding in isolation; instead, your responsibilities will span software design, system commissioning, maintenance, and continuous optimization.

• System Design & Programming: You will write, modify, and test application software, PLC code, and DCS configurations for capital expansion projects and system upgrades. This includes developing highly intuitive Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) that help operators monitor and control processes safely.
• Collaborative Engineering: You will partner closely with Process Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and Production Engineers to understand the physical requirements of chemical manufacturing. You will translate their process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) into functional control software.
• Troubleshooting & Support: When system anomalies occur, you will serve as the tier-three technical support, analyzing software logs, communication networks, and control logic to resolve issues quickly and minimize production downtime.
• Process Optimization: You will analyze historical production data to identify bottlenecks, energy inefficiencies, or quality variations, and design software solutions to continuously improve plant performance.
• Safety and Compliance: You will ensure all software modifications strictly adhere to Synthomer's management of change (MOC) procedures, safety standards, and environmental regulations, documenting all code changes meticulously.

To be competitive for the Software Engineer role at Synthomer, candidates must possess a strong foundation in both engineering principles and software development, particularly within an industrial manufacturing context.

• Must-have technical skills:

  • Proficiency in programming PLCs and DCS platforms (such as Emerson DeltaV, Siemens S7, Rockwell ControlLogix).
  • Strong understanding of SCADA development and HMI design principles.
  • Familiarity with industrial network architectures and communication protocols (OPC, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
  • Knowledge of process control theory (PID tuning, loop response, feedback/feedforward).

• Must-have experience & soft skills:

  • A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a closely related control systems discipline.
  • Proven experience troubleshooting software and hardware integration in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional plant teams and operators.
  • A rigorous, safety-first mindset with a strong attention to detail.

• Nice-to-have skills:

  • Experience in specialty chemical, petrochemical, or continuous manufacturing environments.
  • Knowledge of database management (SQL) and data historian platforms (OSIsoft PI).
  • Familiarity with functional safety standards (IEC 61508 / IEC 61511) and SIL ratings.
  • Experience with high-level programming languages (Python, C#) for data analysis or custom utility development.

Q: How difficult is the interview process for a Software Engineer at Synthomer? A: Candidates generally describe the interview process as average to slightly difficult. While the questions themselves are practical and logical rather than abstract brainteasers, the panel interview requires you to demonstrate a highly integrated understanding of software logic, physical chemical processes, and safety protocols.

Q: What is the typical timeline from application to offer? A: Synthomer is known for running a highly efficient recruitment process. Many candidates report completing the entire process—including online assessments, phone screens, and panel interviews—within two to three weeks, with contract offers extended very quickly after the final round.

Q: Do I need a chemical engineering background for this Software Engineering role? A: While a background in Chemical Engineering is highly beneficial (especially for roles aligned with process control), it is not strictly required. Candidates with degrees in Electrical, Systems, or Software Engineering are highly competitive, provided they understand physical process dynamics, control loops, and industrial hardware-software integration.

Q: What is the hybrid or remote work policy for this role? A: Because this role directly supports physical manufacturing assets and requires close collaboration with plant operators and physical hardware testing, it is primarily an onsite position. However, depending on the specific site and project cycle, some hybrid flexibility may be available for administrative or design-heavy tasks.

To truly set yourself apart during the Synthomer recruitment process, keep these practical, insider tips in mind:

• Show Genuine Inspiration: Synthomer values employees who are genuinely excited about the company's products and the impact of specialty chemicals on everyday life. Research their recent sustainability initiatives, product lines, and market growth, and weave this knowledge into your conversations.
• Incorporate Company Values: Throughout your interviews, explicitly align your answers with Synthomer's core values of safety, integrity, teamwork, and innovation. When describing past achievements, explain how you achieved them in a way that reflects these principles.
• Maintain Strong Presence: For face-to-face or video interviews, maintain excellent posture, consistent eye contact, and clear, confident articulation. A professional and composed demeanor signals that you can handle high-pressure situations on the plant floor.

• Prepare Questions for the Panel: Show that you are thinking like a future team member. Ask insightful questions about their current control system migration plans, how they handle software deployment during plant turnarounds, or how the engineering team collaborates with operations.

A Software Engineer position at Synthomer offers a unique and highly rewarding opportunity to apply digital expertise to physical, world-scale manufacturing processes. By designing and optimizing the software that controls complex chemical production, you will have a direct, tangible impact on operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The recruitment process is fast, structured, and focused heavily on practical engineering competence, safety leadership, and collaborative team dynamics.

To maximize your chances of success, focus your preparation on mastering industrial control logic, structuring your behavioral stories using the STAR method, and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to operational safety. If you are ready to take the next step in your career and join a dynamic global team, you can explore additional interview insights, community reviews, and tailored preparation resources on Dataford to ensure you stand out in every round of your interview.

The salary data reflects the broad range of opportunities available at Synthomer, spanning from entry-level engineering development roles to highly experienced senior process control positions. When preparing your compensation expectations, consider how your specific technical expertise, years of industrial experience, and local market conditions align with these ranges. Remember that Synthomer rewards strong technical capability and safety leadership, which are key levers during offer discussions.