Principal Chemical Engineer - R&D

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision insurance

Provident fund 15%

Annual performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

On-site lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer to lead cutting-edge R&D in a Rustenburg facility. You will drive the design, planning, and execution of complex synthesis and process development, including pilot-scale up, while mentoring a team of researchers and engineers.

You will collaborate across product development, manufacturing, and marketing to translate scientific findings into scalable, commercial solutions.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Chemical Engineering, with strong research background.
• 12+ years of experience in chemical R&D, process design and scale-up.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena.
• Proven track record of project leadership and innovation in chemical industry.
• Proficiency in statistics, DOE, and process modeling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-impact R&D projects focused on novel synthesis and process development.
• Design and execute lab and pilot-scale experiments to validate new processes.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and prepare technical reports and recommendations.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers, providing technical guidance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Stay current with literature and emerging technologies in chemical engineering.

Skills

Chemical kinetics

Reaction engineering

Thermodynamics

Transport phenomena

DOE / Experimental design

Statistics

Technical communication

Mentorship

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

DOE software

Process modeling tools

Analytical instrumentation knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in specialty chemicals, is actively seeking a highly experienced Principal Chemical Engineer to join their cutting-edge Research and Development department at their facility in Rustenburg . This role is integral to driving innovation and developing next-generation chemical products and processes. You will be instrumental in leading complex research projects, from conceptualization through to pilot scale-up, and providing critical technical expertise. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of chemical kinetics, reaction engineering, and materials science, coupled with a proven ability to translate scientific discoveries into viable commercial applications. This is a demanding, hands-on role that requires strong analytical skills, creative problem-solving, and the ability to work effectively within a collaborative R&D environment. You will work closely with a team of scientists and engineers to push the boundaries of chemical innovation. We are committed to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and rigorous inquiry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage high-impact R&D projects focused on novel chemical synthesis and process development.
• Conduct in-depth theoretical and experimental investigations into chemical reactions and process phenomena.
• Design and execute laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to validate new processes and technologies.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and develop comprehensive technical reports and recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, manufacturing, and marketing, to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior researchers and engineers.
• Evaluate and recommend new equipment and analytical techniques for R&D activities.
• Ensure all research and development activities comply with safety regulations and intellectual property guidelines.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging technologies in chemical engineering and related fields.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the R&D department and identify new avenues for innovation.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field with a strong research background.
• 12+ years of experience in chemical research and development, process design, and scale-up.
• Demonstrated expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena.
• Proven track record of successful project leadership and innovation in the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, experimental design (DOE), and process modeling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience working in a laboratory setting with advanced analytical instrumentation is essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous 15% provident fund contribution, and potential for annual performance bonuses.
• Employees have access to extensive professional development opportunities, including sponsored advanced degrees, workshops, and international conferences.
• The role is based on-site in Rustenburg , providing full access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and collaborative team dynamics.
• Other benefits include generous annual leave and a stimulating work environment focused on scientific discovery and career advancement.