Chemical Engineer - Specialty Polymers Research

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Retirement savings plan with company-m

State-of-the-art research facilities

Opportunities for publication

Professional development

Innovative research environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer in East London, Eastern Cape, to drive R&D and scale-up of specialty polymers in a hybrid work setting. You will explore novel synthesis methods, characterize new materials, and translate lab discoveries into commercially viable products.

The role emphasizes polymer chemistry, chemical engineering principles, and collaboration with world-class researchers to impact advanced materials development.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer R&D, preferably in specialty chemicals.
• Hands-on polymer synthesis and characterization experience.
• Knowledge of polymer processing techniques considered an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team.
• Experience with literature search and data analysis software.
• Experience with pilot-scale or manufacturing scale-up is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct synthesis and modification of specialty polymers for high-performance applications.
• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize polymer formulations.
• Characterize polymer properties using advanced analytical techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR).
• Scale-up polymer processes from lab to pilot plant and potentially to production.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers on interdisciplinary projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in polymer synthesis and processing.
• Prepare detailed research reports, specifications, and disclosures.
• Stay abreast of polymer science and engineering advancements.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property portfolio.

Skills

Polymer chemistry knowledge

Analytical problem-solving

Excellent communication

Team collaboration

Literature search

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering / Polymer Science

Tools

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking chemical research and development company, is looking for a talented and innovative Chemical Engineer to join their advanced materials division in East London, Eastern Cape . This role focuses on the research, development, and scaling-up of specialty polymers for high-performance applications. You will be instrumental in exploring novel polymer synthesis techniques, characterizing new materials, and translating laboratory discoveries into commercially viable products. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in polymer chemistry and chemical engineering principles, coupled with a passion for scientific discovery. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with world-class researchers, and make a significant impact in the field of advanced materials. The hybrid work model allows for flexibility while maintaining essential laboratory and plant interactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research into the synthesis and modification of specialty polymers.
• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize polymer formulations.
• Characterize polymer properties using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR).
• Scale-up polymer synthesis processes from laboratory to pilot plant and potentially to commercial production.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers on interdisciplinary research projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in polymer synthesis and processing.
• Prepare detailed research reports, technical specifications, and patent disclosures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in polymer science and engineering.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio of the company.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer research and development, preferably within the specialty chemicals industry.
• Hands-on experience with polymer synthesis techniques and characterization methods.
• Knowledge of polymer processing techniques is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Proficiency in scientific literature search and data analysis software.
• Experience with pilot-scale or manufacturing scale-up of chemical processes is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Access to state-of-the- art research facilities and equipment.
• Opportunities for publication and presentation at scientific conferences.
• Professional development and continuous learning support.
• A vibrant and innovative research environment.