R&D Instruments Leader

Mintek; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an R&D Instruments Leader to drive innovative research in automation and sensing technology. In this pivotal role, you will make key technical decisions that shape research directions, mentor staff, and prepare impactful funding proposals to secure resources for groundbreaking projects. You will also have the opportunity to establish yourself as an expert through publications and presentations, influencing the field at a national level. If you are passionate about transforming research into practical applications and leading teams in a dynamic environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field related to automation and sensing technology.
• 6+ years of experience in research organizations with management experience.

Responsibilities

• Leads technology trends and manages complex research assignments.
• Prepares funding proposals and analyzes research outcomes.

Skills

Research Management

Technical Decision Making

Funding Proposal Preparation

Data Analysis

Mentoring and Training

Education

PhD in Engineering or Science

Job description

Job Title: R&D Instruments Leader

Job Location: Gauteng, Randburg

Deadline: May 23, 2025

Job Description

1. Makes technical decisions impacting research direction and outcomes within the Division and Mintek, developing a specialist research area. Handles complex assignments requiring high levels of integration across multidisciplinary fields.
2. Leads technology trends in the area of specialization at a national level.
3. Transforms opportunities into funded research proposals with limited additional input.
4. Operational: Finds the best ways to develop new technologies/instruments and/or provide services at the process/discipline level.
5. Prepares funding proposals to attract funding from various sources for complex projects.
6. Analyzes, interprets, and reports on complex research outcomes, establishing reputation as an emerging specialist/expert through reports, publications, and presentations at a national level.
7. As a decision-maker, manages all risks related to projects/programmes under direct control.
8. Prepares reports, presentations, and publications as an experienced professional.
9. Leads, guides, mentors, and trains staff under direct supervision.
10. Participates in guiding the strategic direction of the business.

Minimum Requirements

1. PhD in a relevant Engineering or Scientific field related to automation, sensing technology, and platform technology associated with the Measurement and Control Division.
2. At least 6 years’ experience in research or knowledge-based organizations, including a minimum of 6 months in managing people, RDI, and/or commercialization.
3. Experience with prototyping, commercialization of products, and accreditation of methods is advantageous.
4. Proven research record supported by publications in peer-reviewed journals, patents, books, and chapters.
5. Experience in attracting funding.
6. Registration or eligibility for ECSA or SACNASP.
7. Experience in the commercialization of products at advanced TRL levels.
8. Experience in research and data analysis roles.