Lead Polymer Research Engineer - Specialty Polymers (Hybrid)

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Retirement savings plan with company-m

State-of-the-art research facilities

Opportunities for publication

Professional development

Innovative research environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer in East London, Eastern Cape, to drive R&D and scale-up of specialty polymers in a hybrid work setting. You will explore novel synthesis methods, characterize new materials, and translate lab discoveries into commercially viable products.

The role emphasizes polymer chemistry, chemical engineering principles, and collaboration with world-class researchers to impact advanced materials development.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer R&D, preferably in specialty chemicals.
• Hands-on polymer synthesis and characterization experience.
• Knowledge of polymer processing techniques considered an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team.
• Experience with literature search and data analysis software.
• Experience with pilot-scale or manufacturing scale-up is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct synthesis and modification of specialty polymers for high-performance applications.
• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize polymer formulations.
• Characterize polymer properties using advanced analytical techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR).
• Scale-up polymer processes from lab to pilot plant and potentially to production.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers on interdisciplinary projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in polymer synthesis and processing.
• Prepare detailed research reports, specifications, and disclosures.
• Stay abreast of polymer science and engineering advancements.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property portfolio.

Skills

Polymer chemistry knowledge

Analytical problem-solving

Excellent communication

Team collaboration

Literature search

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering / Polymer Science

Tools

Data analysis software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer in East London, Eastern Cape, to drive R&D and scale-up of specialty polymers in a hybrid work setting. You will explore novel synthesis methods, characterize new materials, and translate lab discoveries into commercially viable products.

The role emphasizes polymer chemistry, chemical engineering principles, and collaboration with world-class researchers to impact advanced materials development.