Lead Chemical Engineer - R&D

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Executive bonus package

Professional development budget

Health insurance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead R&D initiatives from a fully remote setup across South Africa. You will guide a team of researchers and engineers to develop novel chemical processes, materials, and technologies with a strategic, results-driven mindset.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in Chemical Engineering with a strong R&D focus and 10+ years of experience, plus proven remote leadership, exceptional communication, and the ability to drive projects from concept

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on R&D.
• 10+ years of experience in chemical process research, development and innovation.
• Proven experience leading R&D teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in catalysis, reaction engineering, or advanced materials.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective remote leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of chemical engineers and researchers in R&D projects.
• Oversee the conceptualization, design, and development of new chemical processes and technologies.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot-scale testing for new product and process ideas.
• Analyze research data, identify trends, and make strategic recommendations for future development.
• Collaborate with business development and manufacturing teams to ensure successful commercialization of new technologies.
• Manage R&D budgets and ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope.

Skills

RD Leadership

Catalysis

Reaction engineering

Analytical thinking

Remote leadership

Communication skills

Education

PhD or Master’s in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead their Research and Development initiatives. This is a fully remote position, offering a dynamic opportunity to lead groundbreaking projects from anywhere in South Africa. You will guide a team of researchers and engineers in developing novel chemical processes, materials, and technologies. The role requires a visionary leader with a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to foster a collaborative and productive remote research environment. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our client's product portfolio and technological advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of chemical engineers and researchers in R&D projects.
• Oversee the conceptualization, design, and development of new chemical processes and technologies.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot-scale testing for new product and process ideas.
• Analyze research data, identify trends, and make strategic recommendations for future development.
• Collaborate with business development and manufacturing teams to ensure successful commercialization of new technologies.
• Manage R&D budgets and ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on R&D.
• 10+ years of experience in chemical process research, development, and innovation.
• Proven experience in leading R&D teams and managing complex research projects.
• Expertise in areas such as catalysis, reaction engineering, or advanced materials.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective remote leadership.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus package.
• Fully remote work environment.
• Top-tier health, life, and disability insurance.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and home office equipment.
• Opportunity to lead cutting-edge research and make a significant scientific impact.