Catalysis Research Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Catalysis Research Chemical Engineer in Rustenburg, North West. The role focuses on developing novel catalytic systems for industrial applications within a hybrid lab-and-theory setting.

You will design experiments, analyze performance, and contribute to IP strategy, with collaboration across chemists and engineers. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry, with hands-on catalyst design, synthesis, and characterization experience, and strong

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry required or equivalent.
• Strong experience in catalytic materials design and evaluation.
• Proficiency with catalytic mechanisms and characterization techniques.
• Proficient in kinetic modeling and data analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize novel catalytic materials for specific reactions.
• Conduct rigorous testing of catalysts under varied conditions to assess performance and stability.
• Analyze experimental data using advanced statistical methods and kinetic modeling.
• Investigate reaction mechanisms and deactivation pathways.
• Collaborate with chemists and engineers to integrate catalytic systems into process designs.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports and patent applications.
• Operate and maintain reactors and analytical instruments (e.g., GC-MS, XRD, BET).
• Present findings at internal and external conferences.

Skills

Catalyst design

Catalyst synthesis

Catalyst evaluation

Kinetic modeling

Data analysis

Communication

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry

Tools

GC-MS

XRD

BET

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in specialized chemical research and development, is seeking a dedicated Catalysis Research Chemical Engineer to join their innovative team in Rustenburg, North West. This role is designed for an individual passionate about pushing the boundaries of chemical catalysis, with a focus on developing novel catalytic systems for industrial applications.

You will be responsible for designing and executing experiments, analyzing catalytic performance, and contributing to the intellectual property portfolio. The ideal candidate will possess a strong research background, advanced knowledge of catalytic mechanisms, and hands‑on experience with characterization techniques. This is a challenging and rewarding position that offers the chance to work on cutting‑edge projects in a collaborative R&D environment. The hybrid work model allows for focused lab work and data analysis, combined with flexibility for remote collaboration and theoretical studies. We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence, supporting our researchers in their pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries. Your work will directly impact the development of more sustainable and efficient chemical processes for various industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize novel catalytic materials for specific chemical reactions.
• Conduct rigorous experimental testing of catalysts under various reaction conditions to evaluate performance, selectivity, and stability.
• Analyze experimental data using advanced statistical methods and kinetic modeling.
• Investigate reaction mechanisms and deactivation pathways of catalysts.
• Collaborate with chemists and other engineers to integrate catalytic systems into larger process designs.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Operate and maintain specialized laboratory equipment, including reactors and analytical instruments (e.g., GC-MS, XRD, BET).
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in catalysis science and chemical engineering.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.
• Contribute to project planning and intellectual property strategy.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry with a specialization in catalysis.
• Demonstrated experience in catalyst design, synthesis, and evaluation.
• Strong understanding of heterogeneous and/or homogeneous catalysis principles.
• Hands‑on experience with various catalyst characterization techniques.
• Proficiency in kinetic modeling and data analysis software.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publications or patents.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced R&D setting.
• Experience with pilot‑scale catalyst testing is a plus.
• Familiarity with process scale‑up considerations for catalytic processes.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, excellent medical coverage, and retirement benefits. Opportunities for professional growth, including attending leading international conferences, are provided. A supportive and intellectually stimulating work environment is guaranteed. The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility while ensuring critical on‑site research activities are prioritized. This role is based in Rustenburg, North West, a region known for its rich industrial heritage. We value scientific curiosity and encourage innovation, providing resources for cutting‑edge research. The company invests in employee development, offering pathways to senior research scientist or lead R&D engineer positions.