Chemical Research Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 482,000 - 964,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible remote work

Competitive contractor rate

Groundbreaking projects

Long-term engagement potential

Intellectually stimulating team

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chemical Research Engineer for a fully remote contract with a biotechnology client near Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will design and execute experiments for new chemical synthesis and process development, analyze data, and help translate research into scalable solutions.

Remote collaboration is essential: work independently, document results, and communicate with a global team. A Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry and 4+ years of R&D are required;

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry.
• 4+ years of hands-on R&D in a laboratory setting.
• Experience in chemical synthesis, process development, or reaction engineering.
• Proficiency with analytical techniques (GC, HPLC, NMR, MS).
• Strong data analysis and statistical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently, manage time, and meet deadlines.
• Access to a home laboratory setup or external lab access if required.
• Experience with computational chemistry or process modeling is a plus.
• Must be able to work effectively in a remote capacity.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments related to new chemical synthesis routes and process development.
• Develop and optimize laboratory-scale processes for the production of novel compounds.
• Utilize analytical techniques to characterize products and intermediates.
• Perform literature reviews and stay updated on advancements in chemical research.
• Collaborate remotely with researchers to achieve project goals.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and propose solutions.
• Document findings and protocols in electronic lab notebooks.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal and external review.
• Contribute to IP development through invention disclosures.
• Maintain safety in all activities according to remote lab guidelines.

Skills

Data analysis

Remote collaboration

Communication

Time management

Analytical techniques

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry

Tools

GC

HPLC

NMR

MS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering biotechnology firm with a strong focus on sustainable chemical solutions, is seeking a talented Chemical Research Engineer for a remote contract position. This role is ideal for an individual passionate about innovation and driving breakthroughs in new chemical synthesis and process development. You will be responsible for designing and conducting experimental research, analyzing complex data sets, and contributing to the development of novel chemical products and processes. This fully remote role offers unparalleled flexibility while demanding high levels of self-discipline and collaboration. You will be a key contributor to cutting-edge research from the comfort of your own location, working with a forward-thinking organization based near **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. Join a team that values creativity and scientific rigor.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments related to new chemical synthesis routes and process development.
• Develop and optimize laboratory-scale processes for the production of novel compounds.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques to characterize chemical products and reaction intermediates.
• Perform literature reviews and stay updated on the latest advancements in chemical research and engineering.
• Collaborate remotely with research scientists, chemists, and other engineers to achieve project goals.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and propose innovative solutions.
• Document research findings, protocols, and results thoroughly in electronic lab notebooks.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal review and potential external publication.
• Contribute to the intellectual property development through invention disclosures.
• Maintain a strong focus on safety in all experimental activities, adhering to remote lab safety guidelines.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on research and development experience in a laboratory setting.
• Proven experience in chemical synthesis, process development, or reaction engineering.
• Proficiency with a range of analytical techniques (e.g., GC, HPLC, NMR, MS).
• Strong data analysis and statistical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for remote collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet project deadlines.
• Access to a suitable home laboratory setup or willingness to arrange for external lab access if required.
• Experience with computational chemistry or process modeling software is a plus.
• Must be able to work effectively in a remote capacity.

Benefits

• Competitive contractor rate commensurate with experience.
• Flexible remote working arrangement.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking research projects.
• Gain exposure to innovative technologies in the biotech and chemical sectors.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable and impactful chemical solutions.
• Potential for long-term engagement based on project needs and performance.
• Work with a dynamic and intellectually stimulating team.