Principal Analytical Chemist

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Analytical Chemist for a premier research institution in George, Western Cape. You will lead development, validation, and implementation of advanced analytical methods across diverse matrices, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and regulatory compliance in GLP and ISO frameworks.

You will mentor scientists, coordinate with R&D, manage budgets, and report findings in a collaborative lab environment with state-of-the-art instrumentation in George.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in analytical chemistry, with a lead/principal role.
• Proven track record in method development and validation according to international guidelines.
• Strong knowledge of GLP and other quality systems.
• Experience with data analysis software and LIMS is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, validation, and ongoing optimization of analytical methods (HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR).
• Oversee daily operations of the analytical chemistry laboratory, ensuring efficient workflow and resource allocation.
• Provide expert interpretation of complex analytical data and troubleshoot instrumentation issues.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with GLP, ISO, and other standards.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists and laboratory technicians, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to support new product development and investigations.
• Author and review technical reports, SOPs, and validation protocols.
• Manage laboratory budgets, equipment procurement, and inventory control.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry

Master's in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC-MS

LC-MS

ICP-MS

NMR

FTIR

LIMS

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier research institution based in George, Western Cape , is seeking a distinguished Principal Analytical Chemist to lead their analytical services division. This senior role involves overseeing the development, validation, and implementation of sophisticated analytical methods for a wide range of chemical compounds and matrices. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and regulatory compliance of all analytical testing. This position is integral to supporting diverse research projects, quality control initiatives, and advanced troubleshooting efforts within the organization. You will work with state-of-the-art instrumentation and collaborate closely with a team of dedicated scientists and technicians in our state-of-the-art laboratories located in George, Western Cape . This is a ground-breaking opportunity to make a significant impact in a vital scientific field.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, validation, and ongoing optimization of analytical methods using techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, and FTIR.
• Oversee the daily operations of the analytical chemistry laboratory, ensuring efficient workflow and resource allocation.
• Provide expert interpretation of complex analytical data and troubleshoot instrumentation issues.
• Ensure all analytical activities comply with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., GLP, ISO).
• Mentor and guide junior chemists and laboratory technicians, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to provide critical analytical support for new product development and scientific investigations.
• Author and review technical reports, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and validation protocols.
• Manage laboratory budgets, equipment procurement, and inventory control.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in analytical chemistry, with a significant portion in a lead or principal role.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a broad spectrum of modern analytical instrumentation and techniques.
• Proven track record in method development and validation according to international guidelines.
• Strong knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and other relevant quality systems.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex analytical problems and present findings clearly.
• Experience with data analysis software and LIMS is highly desirable.

Benefits

This role comes with an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, coupled with comprehensive health insurance, retirement benefits, and potential performance bonuses. Our client is committed to employee growth, offering substantial opportunities for continuous professional development and attendance at international conferences. The role is based in the picturesque city of George, Western Cape , offering a superb lifestyle. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to scientific excellence and innovation.