Junior Chemical Engineer - Research & Development

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 67,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive stipend

Mentorship from experienced engineers

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Chemical Engineer for a hybrid internship in Paarl, Western Cape. Recent graduates or students will support senior engineers in developing and testing chemical processes, with a mix of lab work and data analysis.

The role emphasizes learning, mentorship, and hands-on experience in a cutting-edge R&D environment, with flexible remote components and a strong focus on safety and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Basic understanding of chemical engineering principles including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist in design and execution of laboratory experiments under guidance of senior staff.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using statistical methods.
• Prepare technical summaries, reports, and presentations on experimental findings.
• Support scale-up and troubleshooting of laboratory processes.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure a safe and organized working environment.
• Conduct literature reviews to gather information on relevant research topics.
• Collaborate with team members on various R&D projects.
• Assist in preparation of project documentation and materials.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for project advancement.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the research team.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Data analysis

Excel

Communication

Teamwork

Proactive attitude

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative research organization, is seeking an enthusiastic Junior Chemical Engineer for a hybrid internship role based in Paarl, Western Cape, ZA . This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or current student to gain hands‑on experience in a cutting‑edge R&D environment. You will support senior engineers and scientists in the development and testing of new chemical processes and products. The role involves a blend of laboratory work, data analysis, and collaboration, with the flexibility of remote work contributing to certain tasks. We are looking for a curious, detail-oriented individual eager to learn and contribute to impactful research projects. This internship provides invaluable exposure to the chemical industry and a chance to develop key professional skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and execution of laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior staff.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using statistical methods.
• Prepare technical summaries, reports, and presentations on experimental findings.
• Support the scale-up and troubleshooting of laboratory processes.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure a safe and organized working environment.
• Conduct literature reviews to gather information on relevant research topics.
• Collaborate with team members on various R&D projects.
• Assist in the preparation of project documentation and materials.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for project advancement.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the research team.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Basic understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques and safety procedures.
• Proficiency in data analysis and presentation tools (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Eagerness to learn and a proactive attitude.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in both a laboratory and a remote/hybrid setting.
• Must be based in or near Paarl, Western Cape, ZA , and available for a hybrid work schedule.

Benefits

• This internship offers a competitive stipend, providing valuable financial support during your learning experience.
• You will gain practical, hands‑on experience in a professional research and development setting, working on projects that push the boundaries of chemical innovation.
• Our client provides mentorship from experienced professionals, opportunities for skill development, and exposure to a collaborative work environment.
• Benefit from a flexible hybrid schedule that balances on‑site learning with remote responsibilities, offering a well‑rounded professional development experience.