Lead Chemical Research Engineer — Hybrid (Pretoria)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

Education funding

Conference attendance and sabbaticals

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Chemical Research Engineer to lead high-impact research in the advanced materials sector from Pretoria. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on development of novel chemical processes and materials for emerging applications, driving scientific discovery and scalable solutions.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering, brings 10+ years of post-doctoral experience and a proven track record in synthesis, scale-up, and publication.

Qualifications

• Requires PhD in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research experience with strong publication record.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex, multi-disciplinary research projects from concept to proof-of-concept.
• Develop innovative synthesis routes and process methodologies for novel materials.
• Conduct experimental investigations including synthesis, characterization and optimization.
• Analyze complex data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate with academia and industry to drive innovation and partnerships.
• Mentor junior researchers and promote scientific excellence.
• Publish research results and contribute to patents and technical reports.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Grant writing

Communication

Collaboration

Travel readiness

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Principal Chemical Research Engineer to lead high-impact research in the advanced materials sector from Pretoria. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on development of novel chemical processes and materials for emerging applications, driving scientific discovery and scalable solutions.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering, brings 10+ years of post-doctoral experience and a proven track record in synthesis, scale-up, and publication.