Lead R&D Chemical Engineer - Polymer Synthesis

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Performance bonus

Retirement plan

Training and conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead R&D Chemical Engineer in Cape Town to spearhead polymer synthesis research and development in a state-of-the-art facility. You will guide a team of researchers, develop new synthetic routes, and scale processes from lab to pilot plant in a role critical for maintaining a competitive edge.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in polymer synthesis/characterization, with leadership experience and strong knowledge of polymerization methods.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years hands-on polymer synthesis and characterization experience, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Expertise in various polymerization methods (e.g., free radical, condensation, anionic, cationic).
• Proficiency in polymer analysis techniques and interpretation of results.
• Strong understanding of process scale-up principles and pilot plant operations.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to innovate and develop novel solutions to complex chemical problems.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage research projects focused on the synthesis of advanced polymers with tailored properties.
• Develop and optimize novel polymerization techniques and reaction pathways.
• Characterize synthesized polymers using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA).
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot plant and potentially commercial scale, ensuring reproducibility and safety.
• Collaborate closely with material scientists, chemists, and product development teams.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during synthesis and scale-up.
• Mentor and guide junior R&D engineers and scientists.
• Prepare detailed research reports, patent applications, and technical presentations.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Characterization

Leadership

Scale-up

Project management

Patent experience

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Master's in Chemical Engineering/Polymer Science

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials science, is looking for an experienced Lead R&D Chemical Engineer to spearhead polymer synthesis research and development initiatives in their state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town, Western Cape. This senior role demands a visionary individual passionate about innovation and the discovery of novel polymer materials. You will be instrumental in guiding a team of researchers, developing new synthetic routes, and scaling up processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant. The position is based in Cape Town, a hub of scientific advancement, and offers the chance to make a significant impact on future product development. This role is crucial for maintaining our client's competitive edge in the global market.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage research projects focused on the synthesis of advanced polymers with tailored properties.
• Develop and optimize novel polymerization techniques and reaction pathways.
• Characterize synthesized polymers using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA).
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot plant and potentially commercial scale, ensuring reproducibility and safety.
• Collaborate closely with material scientists, chemists, and product development teams.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during synthesis and scale-up.
• Mentor and guide junior R&D engineers and scientists.
• Prepare detailed research reports, patent applications, and technical presentations.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands‑on experience in polymer synthesis and characterization, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated expertise in various polymerization methods (e.g., free radical, condensation, anionic, cationic).
• Proficiency in polymer analysis techniques and interpretation of results.
• Strong understanding of process scale‑up principles and pilot plant operations.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to innovate and develop novel solutions to complex chemical problems.
• Experience with intellectual property and patent filing is a plus.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, along with comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement fund contribution, and an annual performance-based incentive.
• Our client invests in their employees' growth through ongoing training programs, conference attendance, and opportunities for international collaboration.
• Located in scenic Western Cape, this is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in a stimulating research environment.