Senior Agricultural Chemist - Product Development

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medial, dental, vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape, seeks a Senior Agricultural Chemist to lead agrochemical product development, including fertilizers, soil amendments, and crop protection agents.

The role blends hands-on laboratory work with remote data analysis and strategic planning, requiring a Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field and 7+ years in chemical research and development focused on agriculture, formulation, and analytical techniques.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or closely related field with emphasis on organic/analytical chemistry.
• 7+ years of experience in chemical R&D and product development, preferably agrochemical.
• Expertise in formulation components (emulsifiers, dispersants, surfactants, stabilizers).
• Proficiency with advanced analytical instrumentation for chemical characterization.
• Ability to design and execute lab and field experiments and travel for trials.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects from concept to formulation and testing.
• Design and run laboratory experiments for synthesis and formulation.
• Develop and optimize formulation recipes for stability, efficacy, and safety.
• Perform chemical analysis using HPLC, GC-MS, and AAS.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate product performance under real conditions.
• Mentor junior staff and ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Analytical techniques

Formulation science

Agricultural chemistry

Laboratory leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry / Agricultural Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC-MS

AAS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Agricultural Chemist to drive innovation in product development for the agricultural sector. Based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, this hybrid role combines hands-on laboratory work with remote data analysis and strategic planning. You will be instrumental in researching, formulating, and testing new agrochemical products, including fertilizers, soil amendments, and crop protection agents, focusing on efficacy, safety, and environmental sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemistry, with specialized knowledge of agricultural applications, formulation science, and analytical techniques. You will lead product development projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to the regulatory approval process. This position requires a meticulous, results-oriented scientist with a passion for advancing agricultural technology and contributing to sustainable farming practices in the unique context of the Northern Cape . Our client is committed to developing cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of modern agriculture. Your expertise will be vital in bringing new, effective, and responsible products to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects for new agricultural chemical products, from concept to formulation and testing.
• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to synthesize, formulate, and characterize agrochemical compounds.
• Develop and optimize formulation recipes for enhanced product stability, efficacy, and user safety.
• Perform detailed chemical analysis using various techniques (e.g., HPLC, GC-MS, AAS) to ensure product quality and compliance.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate product performance under real-world agricultural conditions.
• Collaborate with toxicologists, environmental scientists, and regulatory experts to ensure product safety and compliance.
• Troubleshoot formulation and performance issues, and recommend solutions.
• Prepare technical reports, research summaries, and documentation for regulatory submissions.
• Stay updated on scientific literature, industry trends, and new analytical methodologies in agricultural chemistry.
• Mentor junior chemists and technicians, providing guidance and technical expertise.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety standards, quality control procedures, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Agricultural Chemistry, or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on organic or analytical chemistry.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical research and product development, preferably within the agrochemical or agricultural inputs industry.
• Extensive knowledge of formulation science, including emulsifiers, dispersants, surfactants, and stabilizers.
• Proficiency in advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation for chemical characterization.
• Experience in designing and executing laboratory and field experiments.
• Strong understanding of agricultural science, crop physiology, and soil chemistry.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment and managing remote tasks.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel for field trials and collaboration within the Kimberley region.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for bonuses based on product development success.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, scientific training, and conference participation.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced analytical equipment.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance between lab and remote work.
• Company vehicle for travel related to field trials and site visits.
• A collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.