Principal Chemical Engineer - R&D

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

R&D budget

Relocation support

Innovative environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer with a strong focus on Research and Development to join their Pretoria team. This senior role leads complex projects, translates lab findings into scalable industrial processes, and drives breakthrough innovations.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D., 12+ years in chemical R&D, and a track record in reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, pilot plant scale-up, and technology transfer.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Proven extensive experience in chemical R&D and innovations.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics and separation processes.
• Experience with pilot plant design, scale-up, and technology transfer.

Responsibilities

• Lead cutting-edge research projects to develop new chemical products and improve processes.
• Design and execute experimental protocols, analyze data, and guide R&D efforts.
• Evaluate technical and economic feasibility of new processes and technologies.
• Collaborate with chemists, materials scientists, and manufacturing engineers.
• Develop and maintain intellectual property through patents and publications.
• Provide expert technical consultation and mentorship to junior researchers and engineers.

Skills

R&D leadership

Experimental design

Data analysis

Mentorship

Publication record

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an exceptional Principal Chemical Engineer with a strong focus on Research and Development to join their innovative team in Pretoria . This senior role is crucial for driving breakthrough innovations in chemical product development and process technology. You will lead complex research projects, explore novel applications, and translate laboratory findings into scalable industrial processes. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a deep understanding of chemical principles and a passion for scientific discovery, contributing to the technological advancement of the organization from their base in Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cutting-edge research projects aimed at developing new chemical products and improving existing manufacturing processes.
• Design and execute experimental protocols, analyze data, and interpret results to guide R&D efforts.
• Evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of new processes and technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including chemists, materials scientists, and manufacturing engineers.
• Develop and maintain intellectual property through patents and publications.
• Provide expert technical consultation and mentorship to junior researchers and engineers.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 12+ years of extensive experience in chemical R&D, with a proven track record of innovation.
• Deep theoretical and practical knowledge of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Experience with pilot plant design, scale-up, and technology transfer.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Strong publication record and experience in patent applications is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Generous research and development budget and resources.
• Relocation assistance if applicable.
• A stimulating work environment focused on scientific exploration and innovation in Pretoria .