Chemical Engineer - Polymer Science

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 47,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave + development programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Engineer to join our client’s R&D team in Kimberley, Northern Cape. The role centers on synthesis, characterization, and the development of novel polymers.

You will optimize polymerization processes, create new formulations, and support scale-up from lab to pilot production, working closely with the R&D, manufacturing and sales teams.

This is a hands-on role for a creative problem-solver with a passion for materials science.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Chemistry.
• 2-5 years of experience in polymer synthesis, characterization, or processing.
• Strong understanding of polymerization mechanisms and kinetics.
• Experience with common polymer characterization techniques.
• Familiarity with process scale-up principles.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize polymerization processes for various polymer types.
• Synthesize novel polymers and copolymers in the laboratory.
• Characterize polymer properties using techniques such as GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, and mechanical testing.
• Investigate structure-property relationships of polymers.
• Develop new polymer formulations for specific applications (e.g., coatings, adhesives, composites).
• Support the scale-up of laboratory processes to pilot and production scales.
• Troubleshoot process issues and develop solutions for manufacturing challenges.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and sales teams to meet project objectives.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymer science and technology.

Skills

polymerization

characterization

process scaling

analytical skills

communication skills

problem-solving

data analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Chemistry

Tools

GPC

DSC

TGA

NMR

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialist in advanced polymer materials, is seeking an innovative Chemical Engineer to join their research and development team in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application development of novel polymers. You will be involved in optimizing polymerization processes, developing new polymer formulations, and supporting the scale-up of production. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in polymer chemistry and chemical engineering principles, coupled with practical laboratory experience. This is a hands‑on role for an individual passionate about material science and eager to contribute to cutting‑edge polymer technologies. We are looking for a creative problem‑solver who can translate research findings into viable commercial products. Join a forward‑thinking company dedicated to advancing the field of polymer science.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize polymerization processes for various polymer types.
• Synthesize novel polymers and copolymers in the laboratory.
• Characterize polymer properties using techniques such as GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, and mechanical testing.
• Investigate structure-property relationships of polymers.
• Develop new polymer formulations for specific applications (e.g., coatings, adhesives, composites).
• Support the scale‑up of laboratory processes to pilot and production scales.
• Troubleshoot process issues and develop solutions for manufacturing challenges.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and sales teams to meet project objectives.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymer science and technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Chemistry.
• 2-5 years of experience in polymer synthesis, characterization, or processing.
• Strong understanding of polymerization mechanisms and kinetics.
• Experience with common polymer characterization techniques.
• Familiarity with process scale‑up principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team.
• Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., Microsoft Office, data analysis tools).
• A passion for material science and innovation.

Benefits

This Chemical Engineer position offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a retirement fund, and annual leave. Our client provides excellent opportunities for professional development, including training in specialized polymer technologies and attending relevant industry conferences. You will be part of a dynamic R&D environment in Kimberley, Northern Cape , working on exciting projects that push the boundaries of material science. We offer a supportive culture that values innovation and collaboration, with opportunities for career growth within the company.