Chemical Engineer - Polymer Synthesis and Processing

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Training & certifications

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Engineer for our client, a leader in advanced materials, to join on-site operations in Vereeniging. You will optimize polymer synthesis and processing, improve product quality, and drive scalable manufacturing excellence in a hands-on environment.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science, at least six years in polymer synthesis and processing, and practical experience with reactors and polymer processing equipment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical engineering with a polymer focus.
• Hands-on experience with polymerization reactors and processing equipment.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and structure-property relationships.
• Proficiency in process control strategies and troubleshooting complex chemical processes.
• Knowledge of polymer characterization techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR).
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork in a manufacturing environment.
• Willingness to work on-site in Vereeniging.

Responsibilities

• Optimize chemical processes for polymer synthesis focusing on yield and purity.
• Develop strategies for polymer processing including extrusion, molding, and casting.
• Conduct experiments and pilots to evaluate catalysts, monomers, and conditions.
• Troubleshoot production issues in polymer synthesis and processing.
• Analyze polymer properties and correlate with process parameters.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance in manufacturing.
• Collaborate with R&D on technology transfer from lab to pilot and scale.
• Maintain batch records, SOPs, and analytical data.
• Support continuous improvement of manufacturing processes and product quality.
• Assist in selecting and implementing new process equipment and control systems.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Reaction engineering

Process control

Polymer chemistry

Analytical techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science

Tools

GPC

DSC

TGA

FTIR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in advanced materials and polymer science, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Engineer to join their manufacturing operations in **Vereeniging**. This role is crucial for optimizing the synthesis and processing of high-performance polymers. You will work hands-on with cutting-edge technology, focusing on enhancing reaction kinetics, improving product quality, and ensuring efficient large-scale production. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in polymer chemistry, chemical reaction engineering, and process control, coupled with a practical approach to problem-solving in an industrial setting. This is an on-site position where your contributions will directly impact product development and manufacturing excellence. You will collaborate closely with research scientists, process technicians, and production teams to bring innovative polymer solutions to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimize chemical processes for the synthesis of various polymers, focusing on yield, purity, and reaction efficiency.
• Develop and implement strategies for effective polymer processing, including extrusion, molding, and casting.
• Conduct experiments and pilot trials to evaluate new catalysts, monomers, and processing conditions.
• Troubleshoot production issues related to polymer synthesis and processing, identifying root causes and implementing solutions.
• Analyze polymer properties (e.g., molecular weight, thermal properties, mechanical strength) and correlate them with process parameters.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations within the manufacturing environment.
• Collaborate with the R&D team on technology transfer from laboratory to pilot and commercial scale.
• Maintain detailed process records, including batch reports, operating procedures, and analytical data.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of manufacturing processes and product quality.
• Assist in the selection and implementation of new process equipment and control systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical engineering, with a specialization in polymer synthesis and processing.
• Hands-on experience with polymerization reactors (batch, semi-batch, continuous) and polymer processing equipment.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and structure-property relationships.
• Proficiency in process control strategies and troubleshooting complex chemical processes.
• Knowledge of analytical techniques for polymer characterization (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a practical, results-oriented approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with safety procedures and environmental compliance in chemical manufacturing.
• Must be willing to work on-site in **Vereeniging**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement savings plan.
• Employees benefit from ample paid time off and opportunities for professional growth through training programs and industry certifications.
• This role provides direct exposure to advanced polymer technologies and manufacturing processes.
• The **Vereeniging** location offers convenient access to industrial resources.
• Join a company dedicated to innovation in materials science and committed to the development of its workforce.