Chemical Engineer - Research & Development (Specialty Chemicals)

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a dynamic specialty chemicals company to hire a Chemical Engineer for its Research & Development team in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role covers developing new products and processes from laboratory scale through to pilot validation, optimizing reaction conditions and exploring novel synthesis routes.

This hybrid position balances lab work with data analysis, process modelling, and cross‑functional collaboration with chemists and engineers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years in chemical R&D or process development.
• Hands-on lab experimentation and small-scale process operations.
• Proficiency in chemical process simulation and data analysis software.
• Strong understanding of organic chemistry and reaction engineering.
• Excellent problem-solving and detail-oriented mindset.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative R&D team.
• Experience in specialty or fine chemicals is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and processes.
• Design and execute pilot-scale trials to validate laboratory findings and gather scale-up data.
• Analyze experimental results using statistical methods and instrumental analysis techniques.
• Develop process models and simulations to understand reaction kinetics and optimize parameters.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers on cross-functional R&D projects.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations of R&D findings.
• Ensure laboratory work and development activities adhere to safety and environmental standards.
• Assist in evaluating new raw materials and technologies.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through invention disclosures and patent support.

Skills

Laboratory skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing specialty chemicals company, is seeking an innovative Chemical Engineer to join their Research & Development team based in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role focuses on the development of new chemical products and processes, from laboratory-scale experimentation through to pilot-scale validation. You will be involved in optimizing reaction conditions, exploring novel synthesis routes, and scaling up processes for potential commercialization. The ideal candidate is passionate about scientific discovery, possesses strong analytical skills, and enjoys tackling complex chemical challenges. This hybrid position allows for significant laboratory work and collaboration with team members, with flexibility for remote analysis and reporting. Contribute to groundbreaking advancements in specialty chemicals right here in Bloemfontein, Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and processes.
• Design and execute pilot-scale trials to validate laboratory findings and gather scale-up data.
• Analyze experimental results using statistical methods and instrumental analysis techniques.
• Develop process models and simulations to understand reaction kinetics and optimize process parameters.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers on cross-functional R&D projects.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations of R&D findings.
• Ensure all laboratory work and process development activities adhere to safety and environmental standards.
• Assist in the evaluation of new raw materials and technologies.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through invention disclosures and patent support.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in chemical R&D or process development.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory experimentation and small-scale process operations.
• Proficiency in chemical process simulation and data analysis software.
• Strong understanding of organic chemistry and reaction engineering principles.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative R&D team.
• Experience in specialty chemicals or fine chemicals is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and generous opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• We foster an environment of innovation and collaboration, providing access to modern laboratory facilities.
• This hybrid role provides a balance of on-site engagement and remote flexibility.
• Join our exciting R&D team in Bloemfontein, Free State and help shape the future of chemical innovation.