Lead Materials Scientist - Advanced Composites

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical & dental coverage

Pension fund contribution

Generous paid time off

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Lead Materials Scientist to spearhead R&D in advanced composite materials. You will lead a team of scientists and engineers, driving projects from concept to commercialization in a hybrid work setting.

The ideal candidate has a PhD with 8+ years in materials science, strong leadership, and deep knowledge of polymer chemistry, RTM/prepreg techniques, and comprehensive material characterization.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field required.
• Minimum 8 years in materials R&D with a focus on composites.
• Proven leadership of R&D teams and projects.
• Expertise in polymer chemistry, composite manufacturing (RTM, prepreg lay-up), and material characterization.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of novel advanced composite materials.
• Mentor a team of materials scientists and engineers.
• Oversee material characterization, testing, and failure analysis.
• Develop and optimize material processing techniques for composites.
• Collaborate with product teams to integrate new materials into products.
• Write technical proposals, reports, and patent applications.
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and at conferences.
• Ensure safety and quality standards in the laboratory.

Skills

Team leadership

Scientific communication

IP management

Problem solving

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science/ related field

Tools

SEM

DSC

TGA

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished and innovative Lead Materials Scientist to spearhead research and development initiatives in advanced composite materials. This hybrid role, based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA , offers the opportunity to shape the future of material science for diverse industrial applications. You will lead a dedicated team of scientists and engineers, driving projects from conceptualization through to commercialization. This position requires a blend of deep scientific expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a passion for solving complex material challenges. The successful candidate will work closely with R&D management and cross-functional teams to align research strategies with business objectives. We are looking for a visionary leader who can inspire innovation and foster a collaborative research environment. This role offers a compelling mix of hands‑on scientific work and strategic leadership, contributing significantly to our client's technological advancement in the field of advanced composites. Your contributions will be vital in developing next-generation materials with enhanced performance characteristics.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel advanced composite materials.
• Manage and mentor a team of materials scientists and engineers.
• Oversee material characterization, testing, and failure analysis.
• Develop and optimize material processing techniques for composites.
• Collaborate with product development teams to integrate new materials into existing and new products.
• Write technical proposals, research reports, and patent applications.
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and at international conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all safety and quality standards in the laboratory.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in composite materials science and manufacturing.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in materials science research and development, with a focus on composites.
• Proven experience in leading research teams and managing R&D projects.
• Expertise in polymer chemistry, composite manufacturing processes (e.g., RTM, prepreg lay-up), and material characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, DSC, TGA, mechanical testing).
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymeric materials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts.
• Experience in intellectual property development and management.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and office environments, adhering to hybrid work policies.
• Demonstrated ability to foster a collaborative and innovative team culture.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus and comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• We offer a generous pension fund contribution and ample paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional growth through attendance at leading industry conferences and workshops are provided.
• You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA .
• The company fosters a supportive work environment that values innovation and teamwork, with a structured hybrid work model designed to balance productivity and personal well-being.