Materials Science Lab Leader - Testing & Innovation

Elchemie Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market related remuneration

Professional development

Collaborative team

Job summary

Elchemie Recruitment is seeking a seasoned Material Science Manager to lead a high-precision Analytical and Physical Property Testing Laboratory in KwaZulu-Natal. You will direct analytical, instrumental, and mechanical testing services to support product development, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supplier qualification.

The role requires strong leadership in laboratory operations, method development, and continuous improvement, with a focus on ISO 9001 compliance and global product

Qualifications

• Requires a BSc Honours in Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science or closely related field.
• NQF Level 8 qualification is mandatory.
• Minimum 5 years in technical or laboratory management roles.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Material Science Laboratory and oversee analytical testing.
• Provide expert technical support for product development and manufacturing.
• Lead and develop laboratory personnel for maximum productivity.
• Ensure ISO 9001 compliance and maintain testing capabilities.
• Coordinate national and international product testing, approvals and certifications.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Materials science

Laboratory management

Technical leadership

Problem solving

Education

BSc Honours in Analytical Chemistry/Materials Science

NQF Level 8 qualification

Tools

Analytical instrumentation

Polymer characterisation

Laboratory equipment management

Job description

Elchemie Recruitment is seeking a seasoned Material Science Manager to lead a high-precision Analytical and Physical Property Testing Laboratory in KwaZulu-Natal. You will direct analytical, instrumental, and mechanical testing services to support product development, manufacturing, quality assurance, and supplier qualification.

The role requires strong leadership in laboratory operations, method development, and continuous improvement, with a focus on ISO 9001 compliance and global product