Materials Scientist - Polymer Engineering

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 482,000 - 758,000; Part time

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a Materials Scientist specializing in Polymer Engineering for a contractor role. You will design, synthesize, and characterize advanced polymer systems, driving next-generation materials for diverse industrial applications.

The position emphasizes hands-on formulation, processing (extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing), and rigorous testing in a collaborative R&D team. A strong publication and reporting habit is valued.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Materials/Polymer Science or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of polymer science industry or research experience.
• Expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Experience with GPC, SEM, and tensile testing.
• Strong communication and collaboration in an R&D setting.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and modify polymers to achieve desired material properties for specific applications.
• Characterize polymers using FTIR, NMR, DSC, TGA, rheology, and mechanical testing.
• Develop processing techniques for polymers, such as extrusion, injection molding, and 3D printing.
• Conduct performance testing and failure analysis of polymer components and systems.
• Collaborate with engineers to translate material concepts into viable products.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Document research findings, prepare technical reports, and contribute to patent filings/publications.
• Stay current with scientific literature and industry trends in polymer science and engineering.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to project planning and strategy development.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Master's or PhD in Materials/Polymer Science or related field

Tools

GPC

SEM

Tensile testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm in advanced materials development, is seeking a talented Materials Scientist with a specialization in Polymer Engineering. This position is ideal for an innovative individual looking to contribute to the development of next-generation polymer-based materials for diverse industrial applications. The role involves extensive research, formulation, characterization, and testing of novel polymer systems. You will be working in a dynamic R&D environment in Centurion, Gauteng , collaborating with a team of experts to solve complex material challenges. This is a fantastic opportunity to be at the forefront of materials science, driving innovation and contributing to sustainable material solutions. The company values scientific curiosity and offers a platform for professional growth in the field of polymer engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and modify polymers to achieve desired material properties for specific applications.
• Characterize polymer materials using a range of analytical techniques, including spectroscopy (FTIR, NMR), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), rheology, and mechanical testing.
• Develop and optimize processing techniques for polymer materials, such as extrusion, injection molding, and 3D printing.
• Conduct performance testing and failure analysis of polymer components and systems.
• Collaborate with engineers and product developers to translate material concepts into viable products.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Document research findings, prepare technical reports, and contribute to patent filings and publications.
• Stay current with scientific literature and industry trends in polymer science and engineering.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to project planning and strategy development.

Requirements

• Masters or Ph.D. degree in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant industry or research experience in polymer science.
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Hands-on experience with common polymer characterization techniques (e.g., GPC, SEM, tensile testing).
• Knowledge of polymer structure-property relationships and their application in material design.
• Familiarity with computational modeling and simulation of polymer behavior is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and presentations.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative R&D setting.
• Proficiency in a research environment located in Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

• This contractor position offers a competitive rate commensurate with experience.
• The role provides significant exposure to innovative material science projects and opportunities to contribute to impactful product development.
• While this is a contract role, there is potential for extension or conversion based on project needs and performance.
• You will work with a highly skilled team of scientists and engineers.
• The project is based in Centurion, Gauteng , offering a central location within the province.
• We provide a platform for continuous learning and professional development within the field of materials science.
• Candidates must be authorized to work as a contractor in South Africa .