Chemical Research and Development Engineer

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Chemical Research and Development Engineer to join their Benoni team on a hybrid basis. The role focuses on exploring and developing new chemical products, processes, and technologies, conducting lab experiments, analyzing results, and scaling promising developments for potential commercialization.

You will collaborate with chemists, materials scientists, and manufacturing engineers, design and execute experiments, evaluate materials, and stay abreast of

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Proven experience in laboratory R&D and data analysis.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques and equipment for chemical characterization.
• Strong knowledge of kinetics, thermodynamics and separation processes.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute lab experiments for new reactions, formulations, and materials.
• Analyze data and prepare technical reports.
• Develop and optimize chemical processes for scalability and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with chemists, materials scientists, and engineers on R&D projects.
• Evaluate raw materials and intermediates for quality and performance.
• Stay updated on latest advancements in chemical engineering.

Skills

Lab R&D experience

Analytical techniques

Reaction kinetics

Thermodynamics

Separation processes

Independent work

Education

MSc/PhD in Chemical Eng

Chemistry or Materials Science

Tools

Analytical instruments

Laboratory equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative Chemical Research and Development Engineer to join their forward-thinking team in Benoni , operating under a hybrid work arrangement. This role is centered on exploring and developing new chemical products, processes, and technologies. You will conduct laboratory experiments, analyze results, and scale up promising developments for potential commercialization. This position requires a strong scientific background, creativity, and the ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical applications. The hybrid nature allows for focused lab work and collaborative remote sessions with broader research teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory experiments to investigate new chemical reactions, formulations, and materials.
• Analyze experimental data, draw conclusions, and prepare detailed technical reports for research findings.
• Develop and optimize chemical processes for scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including chemists, materials scientists, and manufacturing engineers, on R&D projects.
• Evaluate raw materials and intermediates for quality and performance in new product development.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in chemical engineering and relevant scientific fields.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field (e.g., Chemistry, Materials Science).
• Proven experience in laboratory research and development, including experimental design and data analysis.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques and equipment relevant to chemical characterization.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid setting, effectively managing time between lab work and remote tasks.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for innovation-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities and research equipment.
• Opportunities for presenting research at conferences and contributing to patent filings.