Chemical Engineer - Polymer Processing

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote work flexibility

Professional development opportunities

Access to cutting-edge research tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a senior Chemical Engineer for an all-remote role focused on polymer processing R&D. You will lead formulation development, optimize manufacturing processes, and guide pilot-scale trials toward commercial production.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in polymer processing, a strong background in rheology and materials characterization, and proficiency with process-simulation tools. Excellent communication is essential for remote cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field with a focus on polymers.
• Minimum of 5 years in polymer processing, development, or manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in polymer rheology, extrusion, molding, or related processing techniques.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry and material characterization methods.
• Experience with process simulation software relevant to polymer processing.
• Excellent analytical and experimental design skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication for remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D efforts for new polymer formulations and processing methods.
• Optimize existing polymer processing operations for efficiency, quality, and sustainability.
• Conduct pilot-scale trials and support scale-up to commercial production.
• Analyze material properties and performance data to inform process improvements.
• Develop and validate process models for polymer manufacturing.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists, product development teams, and manufacturing engineers.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and project proposals.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with safety and environmental regulations.
• Stay current with advancements in polymer science and processing technologies.

Skills

Polymer processing

Rheology

Experimental design

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's/PhD in Chemical Engineering/Materials Science

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in polymer science and manufacturing, is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer to join their advanced research and development team. This role, based remotely, will focus on the development, optimization, and scale-up of polymer processing techniques. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in polymer chemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering principles, coupled with practical experience in process development. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from any location while contributing to groundbreaking projects. It's a unique opportunity to drive innovation in a high-growth sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead R&D efforts for new polymer formulations and processing methods.
• Optimize existing polymer processing operations for improved efficiency, quality, and sustainability.
• Conduct pilot-scale trials and support the scale-up to commercial production.
• Analyze material properties and performance data to inform process improvements.
• Develop and validate process models for polymer manufacturing.
• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists, product development teams, and manufacturing engineers.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research findings, and project proposals.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with safety and environmental regulations.
• Stay current with advancements in polymer science, processing technologies, and additive manufacturing.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with a focus on polymers.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer processing, development, or manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in polymer rheology, extrusion, molding, or other relevant processing techniques.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry and material characterization methods.
• Experience with process simulation software relevant to polymer processing.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and experimental design skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, essential for effective remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with the industrial and technological landscape relevant to **Tembisa**'s evolving sectors is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and performance incentives.
• As a fully remote role, it provides exceptional work-life balance and flexibility.
• The company invests in employee growth, offering opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and attendance at relevant industry conferences.
• Access to cutting-edge research tools and resources will be provided.
• This role offers the chance to be part of a dynamic team pushing the boundaries of polymer technology.