Chemical Engineer - Research and Development

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

R&D environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Chemical Engineer for its R&D team in Mahikeng, North West. You will design experiments, scale processes from bench to pilot, and collaborate with chemists, materials scientists, and engineers to bring novel polymer technologies toward commercialization.

Ideal candidates hold a Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering, 3–7 years in chemical R&D (preferably polymers or specialty chemicals), and strong data analysis, modeling, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in chemical R&D, preferably polymers or specialty chemicals.
• Experience with experimental design, data analysis and interpretation.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Experience with process scale-up from bench to pilot scale.
• Proficiency in process simulation software is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving and creative approach to challenges.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to develop new chemical processes and products.
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to guide further research.
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot plant and semi-commercial levels.
• Develop process models and simulations to support R&D efforts.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers on joint projects.
• Prepare technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Evaluate the feasibility and economic viability of new process technologies.
• Ensure all laboratory and pilot plant activities adhere to safety and environmental standards.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in the field.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scale-up processes

Process simulation

Technical reporting

Cross-functional collaboration

Safety standards

Verbal communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in polymer science and advanced materials, is seeking a creative and analytical Chemical Engineer for their Research and Development team based in Mahikeng, North West . This role is at the forefront of developing next-generation chemical products and processes. The Chemical Engineer will conduct laboratory experiments, scale-up processes from bench to pilot scale, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring new technologies to commercialization. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and development in a stimulating and resource-rich environment. We encourage scientific exploration and practical application. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background in chemical engineering, coupled with hands‑on experience in R&D and a passion for innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to develop new chemical processes and products.
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to guide further research.
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot plant and semi-commercial levels.
• Develop process models and simulations to support R&D efforts.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers on joint projects.
• Prepare technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Evaluate the feasibility and economic viability of new process technologies.
• Ensure all laboratory and pilot plant activities adhere to safety and environmental standards.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in the field.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a related field (e.g., Polymer Science, Materials Science).
• 3-7 years of experience in chemical research and development, preferably in polymers or specialty chemicals.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Experience with process scale-up from bench to pilot scale.
• Proficiency in process simulation software is a plus.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a creative approach to challenges.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team.
• Willingness to work in a hybrid capacity from our Mahikeng, North West facility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive benefits including medical aid, retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• This role provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and contributing to high-impact research projects.
• Employees in Mahikeng, North West benefit from a stimulating R&D environment and access to advanced laboratory facilities.
• Additional benefits include generous annual leave, support for attending conferences, and a collaborative company culture focused on innovation.
• This is a chance to shape the future of materials science.