Chemical Engineer - Research and Development

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Professional growth opportunities

Conference attendance

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer to join its Research and Development team in Randburg, Gauteng. The role focuses on discovering, innovating, and scaling up new chemical products from laboratory to pilot plant stages within a hybrid work model, based in Randburg.

You will work with cross-functional teams to develop novel materials and processes, conduct safety assessments, and contribute to IP documentation while maintaining rigorous lab records and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering required.
• 2–5 years in chemical process development, scale-up, or R&D.

Responsibilities

• Conduct lab experiments and pilot tests to develop and optimize new processes.
• Analyze data and prepare technical reports for R&D management.
• Scale up processes from lab to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists, chemists, and engineers on cross-functional teams.
• Design and conduct safety assessments for new processes and materials.
• Troubleshoot issues during development and scale-up.
• Review and evaluate new technologies relevant to R&D objectives.
• Assist in preparing IP documentation such as patent disclosures.
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks and adhere to R&D protocols.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Excel

MATLAB

Python

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly innovative company at the forefront of chemical technology, is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer to join their Research and Development department in Randburg, Gauteng. This role is perfect for an individual with a passion for discovery, process innovation, and scaling up new chemical products from laboratory to pilot plant stages. You will be involved in exciting projects, contributing to the development of novel materials and advanced chemical processes. The position utilizes a hybrid work model, allowing for collaboration in the Randburg office and focused work remotely. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of chemical products and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials to develop and optimize new chemical processes and products.


• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and prepare detailed technical reports for R&D management.


• Scale up chemical processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant and commercial scale.


• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists, chemists, and other engineers on cross-functional project teams.


• Design and conduct safety assessments for new chemical processes and materials.


• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during development and scale-up phases.


• Research and evaluate new technologies and methodologies relevant to the company's R&D objectives.


• Assist in the preparation of intellectual property documentation, such as patent disclosures.


• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and adhere to company R&D protocols and quality standards.


• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and able to work hybrid from Randburg, Gauteng.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.


• 2-5 years of experience in chemical process development, scale-up, or R&D, preferably within a specialty chemicals or advanced materials environment.


• Strong theoretical foundation in chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.


• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and pilot plant operations.


• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation using tools like Excel, MATLAB, or Python.


• Experience with process simulation software is beneficial.


• Excellent problem-solving skills and a creative approach to innovation.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.


• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and a stimulating work environment. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth, attending industry conferences, and contributing to groundbreaking research. This Randburg-based hybrid role provides a chance to work on cutting-edge projects while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.