Chemical Engineer - Research & Development

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 750,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

13th cheque

Learning sponsorships

Research in Pretoria

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a creative Chemical Engineer to join its Research & Development team in Pretoria. You will conceptualize and develop novel chemical processes and products, conduct bench-scale experiments, pilot studies, and support technology transfer to manufacturing in a collaborative, safety-conscious environment.

The role requires a Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering, hands-on R&D experience (polymer chemistry, catalysis, or fine chemicals preferred), and proficiency with

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Experience in research and development, preferably in polymer chemistry, catalysis, or fine chemicals.
• Strong understanding of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, COMSOL).
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Creative problem-solving abilities and a passion for innovation.
• Prior experience in Pretoria's research institutions or chemical industry is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to develop and characterize new chemical compounds and processes.
• Design and execute pilot-scale trials to validate new technologies and gather scale-up data.
• Perform process modeling and simulation to predict performance and optimize reaction conditions.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and prepare comprehensive technical reports.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers to achieve project goals.
• Evaluate raw materials and assess their suitability for new product development.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications.
• Assist in the technical transfer of developed processes to manufacturing facilities.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies relevant to the company's R&D objectives.
• Ensure all research and development activities are conducted with strict adherence to safety protocols.

Skills

Chemical engineering

Data analysis

Creative problem solving

Communication

Independent work

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

COMSOL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and forward-thinking company specializing in innovative material science, is seeking a creative Chemical Engineer to join their Research & Development team in **Pretoria**. This role is crucial for the conceptualization and development of novel chemical processes and products that will define the future of the industry. You will be involved in bench-scale experimentation, pilot studies, and technology transfer to manufacturing. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment located in **Pretoria**. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about discovery and possess a strong scientific foundation combined with practical engineering skills. Join us in pushing the boundaries of chemical innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to develop and characterize new chemical compounds and processes.
• Design and execute pilot-scale trials to validate new technologies and gather scale-up data.
• Perform process modeling and simulation to predict performance and optimize reaction conditions.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and prepare comprehensive technical reports.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers to achieve project goals.
• Evaluate raw materials and assess their suitability for new product development.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications.
• Assist in the technical transfer of developed processes to manufacturing facilities.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies relevant to the company's R&D objectives.
• Ensure all research and development activities are conducted with strict adherence to safety protocols.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in research and development, preferably in polymer chemistry, catalysis, or fine chemicals.
• Strong understanding of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, COMSOL).
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Creative problem-solving abilities and a passion for innovation.
• Prior experience in **Pretoria**'s research institutions or chemical industry is a plus.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a 13th cheque.
• Our client supports continuous learning through sponsored workshops, conferences, and advanced degree programs.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to work on groundbreaking research in **Pretoria**, contributing to the development of next-generation materials.