Lead Chemical Engineer - R&D and Innovation (Remote)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 2,479,000 - 3,635,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Health insurance

Home office budget

Flexible hours

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead R&D initiatives with full remote flexibility. You will lead the exploration, design, and development of novel chemical processes and technologies, guiding projects from concept to pilot scale in a globally distributed team.

The role requires an advanced degree and 10+ years in chemical R&D, process development, and innovation, with proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• 10+ years in chemical R&D, process development and innovation with proven project leadership.
• Expertise in synthesis, catalysis, or separation technologies.
• Experience leading virtual teams and remote collaboration.
• Strong knowledge of patent law and R&D project management methods.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design and development of new chemical processes and technologies.
• Mentor and manage a remote team of chemical engineers and scientists.
• Oversee pilot plant trials and scale-up activities with robust, reproducible results.
• Perform techno-economic assessments and market analyses for new processes.
• Develop and implement IP strategies to protect innovations.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

Techno-economic analysis

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead their research and development efforts, working entirely remotely. In this critical role, you will lead the exploration and development of novel chemical processes and technologies that will shape the future of the company. You will manage a virtual team of researchers and engineers, driving projects from concept through to pilot scale, with a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and commercial viability. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned leader with a passion for cutting-edge chemical science to make a profound impact from anywhere, collaborating with a globally distributed workforce and contributing to groundbreaking advancements in the chemical sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of new chemical processes and technologies.
• Manage and mentor a remote team of chemical engineers and scientists, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Oversee pilot plant trials and scale-up activities, ensuring robust and reproducible results.
• Conduct thorough techno-economic assessments and market analysis for new process initiatives.
• Develop and implement intellectual property strategies to protect innovative developments.
• Present research findings and project updates to senior management and key stakeholders.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical R&D, process development, and innovation, with a proven track record of successful project leadership.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced chemical synthesis, catalysis, or separation technologies.
• Experience managing virtual teams and working effectively in a remote setting.
• Strong understanding of patent law and R&D project management methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and equity options.
• Comprehensive global health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and home office setup.
• Flexible working hours and location independence.
• Opportunity to drive significant innovation and shape the future of the chemical industry from your home office.