Chemical Engineer - Polymer Synthesis (Remote)

Placements24; Roanoke (VA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Remote work

International collaboration

Virtual training & conferences

Opportunities to publish research

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly qualified Chemical Engineer (polymer science) for a fully remote role, flexible across South Africa. You will design and optimize polymerization processes, characterize products, and scale experiments from lab to pilot plant while collaborating with an international team of scientists.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in polymer synthesis, strong background in multiple polymerization techniques, and hands-on characterization skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Engineering
• 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and process development
• Experience with polymerization techniques (free radical, condensation, living polymerization)
• Experience with polymer characterization (GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, rheology)

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments for polymer synthesis and optimization of processes.
• Characterize polymers using GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, rheology.
• Scale up polymer synthesis from lab to pilot plant.
• Develop and troubleshoot polymerization reactors and related equipment.
• Perform reaction kinetics studies and thermodynamic analyses for polymerization.
• Collaborate with international teams; analyze data and provide improvement insights.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Ensure safety and environmental best practices in R&D.
• Stay abreast of advancements in polymer science and engineering.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymerization techniques

Polymer characterization

Experiment design

Education

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

Tools

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering company in the development of advanced polymer materials, is seeking a highly motivated Chemical Engineer with expertise in polymer synthesis to join their globally distributed research team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will be instrumental in designing and developing novel polymerization processes, characterizing polymers, and scaling up laboratory synthesis to pilot production. Your role will involve extensive research, experimental design, data analysis, and collaboration with an international team of scientists and engineers. The ideal candidate has a strong background in polymer chemistry and chemical engineering principles, with a proven ability to innovate and solve complex synthesis challenges. You will contribute to cutting‑edge research that drives the development of next‑generation polymer products. This role demands excellent self‑management, strong technical acumen, and a passion for innovation in a remote‑first environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments for the synthesis of new polymers and the optimization of existing processes.
• Characterize synthesized polymers using techniques such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, and rheology.
• Scale up polymer synthesis processes from laboratory bench scale to pilot plant level.
• Develop and troubleshoot polymerization reactors and associated equipment.
• Perform reaction kinetics studies and thermodynamic analysis for polymerization reactions.
• Analyze process data and experimental results to provide insights and recommendations for process improvement.
• Collaborate closely with research chemists, materials scientists, and engineers globally via virtual platforms.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research summaries, and presentations.
• Ensure all research and development activities adhere to safety and environmental best practices.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymer science and engineering.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Engineering from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer synthesis and process development.
• Strong theoretical knowledge and hands‑on experience in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Proficiency in polymer characterization techniques (GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, rheology, etc.).
• Experience with process simulation and modeling tools is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and experimental design skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively in a remote setting.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet project deadlines.
• Familiarity with safety protocols for chemical synthesis and laboratory operations.
• A strong publication record or patent portfolio in polymer science is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and international collaboration.
• This fully remote role offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to work from East London or any other approved location.
• You will be part of an innovative, globally recognized research team working on exciting projects at the forefront of polymer technology.
• Our client invests in continuous learning and development, providing access to virtual training, conferences, and opportunities to publish research.
• We foster a culture of scientific excellence, creativity, and teamwork, offering a rewarding career path for talented engineers passionate about polymer innovation.