Junior Specialist : Research

South African Bank Note Company; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 350 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading banking institution in South Africa is seeking a Research and Development Specialist to support their objectives in research, continuous improvement, and compliance. The ideal candidate will hold an MSc in Material Science or Chemistry and have a minimum of 3 years' experience in R&D. Responsibilities include conducting research, developing test methods, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. A commitment to continuous professional development is essential, alongside strong analytical skills. Applications should be submitted through the specified portal, with required documents attached.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years' experience in research and development.
• Registration with relevant Professional Body is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research related to company objectives.
• Support continuous improvement activities.
• Report findings of research and development.
• Participate in professional development.
• Support quality assurance compliance.

Skills

Applying Expertise and Technology

Analysing

Learning and Researching

Planning and Organising

Creating and Innovating

Adhering to Principles and Values

Writing and Reporting

Following Instructions and Procedures

Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations

Education

MSc degree in Material Science / Chemistry or equivalent experience

Job description

Job Summary

The incumbent will support the Research and Development function in terms of research and development, continuous improvement, reporting and compliance.

Main Responsibilities

• Conduct research in line with company objectives, including design of experiments, feasibility studies, and problem solving.
• Support continuous improvement activities such as development of test methods, process capability studies, and evaluation of new technologies.
• Report and present the results of research and development as well as continuous improvement activities.
• Participate in continuous professional development to sustain proficiency in the field.
• Support the quality assurance function on an ad‑hoc basis, ensuring compliance with SHE and Quality requirements and company policies.

Preferred Candidate Profile

• MSc degree in Material Science / Chemistry or equivalent combination of education and job‑related experience.
• Registration with relevant Professional Body (advantageous).
• A minimum of 3 years' experience in research and development.

Knowledge and Skills

• Applying Expertise and Technology
• Analysing
• Learning and Researching
• Planning and Organising
• Creating and Innovating
• Adhering to Principles and Values
• Writing and Reporting
• Following Instructions and Procedures
• Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations

Application Process

Internal applicants should apply on the SABN careers portal on the intranet by uploading detailed CVs and copies of qualifications.

External applicants should apply on Careers24 website by uploading detailed CVs, ID copy, copies of qualifications and recent payslip.

No applications will be considered if the supporting documents are not submitted.

Privacy and Compliance

The personal information that is collected and processed for recruitment purposes will not be utilised for any other purpose. You can read more on how we process your personal information in the South African Reserve Bank Privacy Notice.

SABN reserves the right not to make an appointment to the posts as advertised. Prospective applicants must be willing to undergo a series of assessments and security clearance process as prescribed by the National Key Point Act.

Equality and Diversity

SABN is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of SABN and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under‑represented designated groups.

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements. Please note that correspondence will be limited to shortlisted applicants only. Should you not hear from us within 10 working days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.