Lead Chemical Engineer - Specialty Polymers And Composites

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 102,000 - 153,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Education opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer to drive specialty polymers and composites from concept to commercialization. You will lead a team of engineers and scientists in process design, scale-up, and manufacturing support, shaping high-performance materials for demanding applications.

The role requires a strong background in polymer science, extrusion and composite processing, and a proven track record in leading technical teams. A hybrid work setup is available in Kimberley.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Materials Science.
• 8+ years in specialty polymer and composite development and manufacturing.
• Proven leadership of technical teams and development projects.
• Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing (extrusion, molding, composites).
• Experience with analytical/testing equipment for polymers/composites; familiarity with process modeling tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of new specialty polymers and composite materials and their manufacturing processes.
• Oversee process design, scale-up, and optimization for polymer compounding, extrusion, and composite fabrication.
• Mentor and manage a team of chemical engineers and technicians.
• Conduct material characterization, performance testing, and failure analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing to commercialize innovations.
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specs for new processes.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues and implement process improvements to boost quality and efficiency.
• Stay updated on advancements in polymer and composite materials.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Analytical thinking

Team leadership

Problem solving

Presentation

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering/Polymer Science/Materials Science

Tools

Process simulation tools

Polymer/Composite testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials innovation, is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in Specialty Polymers and Composites for their facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role involves leading the development and commercialization of novel polymer formulations and composite materials for high-performance applications. You will guide a team of engineers and scientists in process design, optimization, scale-up, and manufacturing support. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in polymer science, compounding, extrusion, and composite manufacturing techniques, coupled with a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles. You will work closely with product development, R&D, and manufacturing to bring innovative materials from concept to market. This position offers a significant opportunity to shape the future of advanced materials and lead critical projects in a dynamic industrial landscape. We are looking for a strategic thinker and technical expert with excellent leadership and project management skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new specialty polymers and composite materials and their manufacturing processes.
• Oversee process design, scale-up, and optimization for polymer compounding, extrusion, and composite fabrication.
• Manage and mentor a team of chemical engineers and technicians involved in materials development.
• Conduct material characterization, performance testing, and failure analysis.
• Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful commercialization.
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, and detailed equipment specifications for new processes.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues and implement process improvements to enhance quality and efficiency.
• Stay current with advancements in polymer and composite materials science and processing technologies.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety and environmental standards.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Materials Science.
• 8+ years of experience in specialty polymer and composite materials development and manufacturing.
• Proven experience in leading technical teams and managing development projects.
• Deep understanding of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, composites).
• Experience with analytical and testing equipment for polymers and composites.
• Knowledge of process simulation and modeling tools is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Familiarity with composite manufacturing processes (e.g., RTM, pultrusion, filament winding).
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including excellent medical aid, pension fund, and opportunities for further education.
• Employees benefit from generous leave and a stimulating work environment focused on innovation.
• This permanent, full-time position in Kimberley offers a leadership role in the exciting field of advanced materials.