Principal Analytical Chemist

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Principal Analytical Chemist in Rustenburg, North West. This senior role focuses on developing and validating advanced analytical methods, interpreting complex data, and guiding analytical teams within a state-of-the-art facility.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry or related field, with 7+ years in R&D settings, expertise across GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR, XRD, and strong data analysis and technical writing skills.

Qualifications

• PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 7+ years of progressive analytical chemistry experience with emphasis on method development and validation in an R&D setting.
• Proven expertise with modern analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Experience in data analysis, interpretation, and statistical evaluation.
• Strong written and verbal communication with publications or patents.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and validation of novel analytical methods for complex substances and materials.
• Operate and maintain advanced analytical instruments (GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR, XRD).
• Analyze data, interpret results, and prepare reports for stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Provide technical consultation and problem-solving support to research and production teams.
• Oversee method transfer and ensure consistency across lab sites.
• Mentor junior chemists and stay updated on emerging analytical technologies.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, GLP, and safety protocols.
• Contribute to strategic planning of the analytical sciences department.

Skills

Method development

Data analysis

Technical writing

Mentoring

Project leadership

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry or related field

Tools

GC-MS

LC-MS

ICP-MS

NMR

FTIR

XRD

LIMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in chemical analysis and materials science, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Analytical Chemist to join their advanced research facility in Rustenburg, North West . This senior position is critical for driving innovation in analytical methodologies and ensuring the highest standards of quality control for complex chemical products and processes. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, validating, and implementing cutting-edge analytical techniques, interpreting complex data, and providing expert scientific guidance. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, work with state-of-the-art instrumentation, and lead analytical endeavors within Rustenburg, North West . We are looking for an individual with a strong theoretical foundation and extensive practical experience in a demanding R&D environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and validation of novel analytical methods for the characterization of complex chemical substances and materials.
• Operate and maintain advanced analytical instrumentation, including but not limited to GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR, and XRD.
• Perform in-depth analysis of experimental data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive reports for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Provide expert technical consultation and problem‑solving support to research and production teams.
• Oversee method transfer and ensure consistency across different laboratory sites.
• Stay current with emerging analytical technologies and scientific literature, identifying opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Mentor and train junior chemists and technicians in analytical techniques and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant quality standards (e.g., ISO, GLP) and safety protocols.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the analytical sciences department.

Requirements

• PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in analytical chemistry, with a significant focus on method development and validation in an R&D setting.
• Demonstrated expertise with a wide range of modern analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Proven experience in data analysis, interpretation, and statistical evaluation.
• Excellent understanding of chemical principles and their application to complex matrices.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills, with a track record of publications or patents.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Ability to lead projects, mentor staff, and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team located in Rustenburg, North West .
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of scientific integrity and laboratory safety.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, a retirement savings plan, performance-based incentives, ample paid time off, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development.

Relocation assistance will be provided for the successful candidate relocating to Rustenburg, North West .