Leather R&D Technician

Would you be interested in joining Nera as a Leather Technician?

Nera is changing the leather tanning market with a new tanning agent called Zeology. Zeology is zeolite-based and chrome-free, aldehyde-free and heavy metal free. A better choice for the environment without compromising on leather performance.

Nera is a brand under Royal Smit & Zoon, a global leader in providing chemical solutions for the leather industry. At Royal Smit & Zoon, we are dedicated to making the leather value chain more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible. Until 2020, our focus primarily lay on Wet-End and Finishing products. However, we recognized that to truly impact the leather value chain, sustainable chemicals for leather tanning are essential, as tanning plays a crucial role in the leather-making process. From this idea, the subsidiary Nera emerged.

As a Leather R&D Technician, you will be based in Weesp at the Tanning Lab. Nera is currently exploring the potential of Zeology in enhancing the development of our product range. We are seeking an experienced Leather Technician who can improve the efficiency of our production process and take responsibility for the (co)development, improvement, and quality of our products.

What you will be doing?

• You develop test programs and you conduct trials on the leather;
• You monitor the trials on the leather and evaluate how the trials have progressed;
• You give project support and lead projects related to Wet-End (and tanning) applications;
• You communicate with and advise colleagues involved in Zeology Wet-End applications;
• You prepare reports, presentations and recommendations in a professional manner;
• You are part of an energetic team with a pioneering character.

What we ask of you?

• You have a minimum of 4 years’ experience in the leather industry of which at least 2 years in a tannery;
• You are a European citizen, preferably living in the Netherlands. If not, you are willing to move to the Netherlands;
• You work in an accurate, disciplined manner and you have a structured working method;
• You are able to report on a multitude of results comprehensively and conclusively to the worldwide Zeology team;
• You are fluent in English: both writing, reading and speaking at a professional level;
• You have a “can do” attitude and have great communicative skills;
• You have the willingness to occasionally travel abroad (approximately 4 weeks per year).

What we offer you

A rewarding role in a dynamic, leading international family-owned company, including:

• A salary that matches your experience level;
• Excellent secondary benefits such as a 13th-month bonus, profit sharing and a solid pension scheme;
• We offer tailormade opportunities for training and personal development.

About Royal Smit & Zoon
Acknowledged Royal Smit & Zoon is a dynamic, internationally operating company with an ambitious mission: to make the leather value chain more sustainable. Are we there yet? Not quite — but we are making great strides. We are proud to have been awarded the prestigious EcoVadis Platinum rating for the second consecutive year, a testament to our continuous innovation and commitment to making a positive impact on both the environment and society.

Since our founding in 1821, we have grown into a seventh-generation family business, specializing in the production of high-quality, sustainable materials for leather processing. Tanneries around the world use our products to create premium leather for applications in the automotive industry, furniture upholstery, and high-end fashion.

Our family roots remain deeply embedded in the company culture, where collaboration and genuine care for one another are at the heart of everything we do. At Royal Smit & Zoon, you’ll find the freedom to develop your skills and achieve your professional ambitions.

We are a respected and highly valued player in the leather industry. Our headquarters and main production site are located in Weesp, with a second production facility in Amersfoort. Across the globe, 400+ dedicated colleagues work for Royal Smit & Zoon, including in the Netherlands, Italy, China, India, and Germany. With a rich heritage, a clear focus, and a long-term vision, Royal Smit & Zoon is shaping the future of sustainable leather.

Join us in creating a more sustainable future!

Apply?
Are you interested? Then apply via the button below and send your CV. For more information, contact Mark Letter (HR and Recruitment Advisor) at [email protected] or via 06-281 361 19.   

Unsolicited introductions of candidates through recruitment agencies or third parties are not appreciated. Therefore, sent CVs and applications from candidates will be considered direct applications.