Materials Science Engineer - Advanced Composites

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Provident fund

Medical aid options

Paid leave

Professional development support

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Materials Science Engineer specializing in advanced composites for its Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal facility. You will conduct R&D and testing across the material lifecycle—conceptualization, formulation, characterization, and validation—while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

The role requires a strong theoretical base with hands-on polymer chemistry, composite manufacturing, and materials characterization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in materials science with a focus on polymer composites.
• Hands-on experience with composite manufacturing techniques (layup, infusion, pultrusion).
• Proficiency in material characterization techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, fiber science, and composite mechanics.
• Experience with CAD software and FEA for material simulation is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving and meticulous approach to experimental work.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a project team.

Responsibilities

• Research, design, and develop novel composite materials with enhanced properties.
• Formulate and optimize composite resin systems and fiber reinforcements.
• Conduct material characterization, including mechanical testing, thermal analysis, and microscopy.
• Investigate material failure mechanisms and propose performance improvements.
• Develop and validate manufacturing processes for composite materials and components.
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure material suitability for applications.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, generating detailed reports and documentation.
• Stay abreast of trends and innovations in composite materials science and engineering.
• Support product development through material expertise and problem-solving.

Skills

Polymer composites

Material characterization

CAD/FEA

Problem solving

Report writing

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science or related field

Tools

CAD software

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected firm in the advanced materials sector, is looking for a skilled Materials Science Engineer specializing in advanced composites. This role is based at our facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , and will involve research, development, and testing of innovative composite materials for demanding applications. You will be integral to the entire lifecycle of material development, from conceptualization and formulation to characterization and performance validation. The position offers a fantastic opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, contribute to technological advancements, and collaborate with a team of experienced engineers and scientists. We seek a proactive individual with a strong theoretical understanding and practical experience in polymer science, composite manufacturing, and material characterization techniques. Your expertise will be key to driving our innovation pipeline forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, design, and develop novel composite materials with enhanced properties.
• Formulate and optimize composite resin systems and fiber reinforcements.
• Conduct comprehensive material characterization, including mechanical testing (tensile, flexural, impact), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), and microscopy (SEM, optical).
• Investigate material failure mechanisms and propose solutions for performance improvement.
• Develop and validate manufacturing processes for composite materials and components.
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure material suitability for intended applications.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, generating detailed reports and technical documentation.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in composite materials science and engineering.
• Support product development efforts through material expertise and problem-solving.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in materials science, with a specific focus on polymer composites.
• Hands-on experience with composite manufacturing techniques (e.g., layup, infusion, pultrusion).
• Proficiency in material characterization techniques and associated instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, fiber science, and composite mechanics.
• Experience with CAD software and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for material simulation is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a meticulous approach to experimental work.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a project team.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive remuneration package, including a base salary and potential for project-based bonuses.
• Benefits include access to a provident fund, medical aid options, and paid leave.
• Opportunities for professional development are available through internal training and support for external certifications or courses.
• This role is located in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a dynamic work environment.
• The hybrid nature of the role allows for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, ensuring productivity and well-being.
• Additional perks include access to modern lab facilities and a supportive team atmosphere.