Principal Chemical Engineer - R&D (Remote)

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote position

Flexible location and schedule

Professional development & conferences

Collaborative research culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer to lead R&D initiatives in novel materials and sustainable processes. This fully remote role enables you to drive ideation through pilot-scale development from your location while collaborating with international teams from Durban to global hubs.

You will design experiments, develop models, perform TEAs, and mentor researchers, shaping future product portfolios while advancing chemical science in a flexible home-based setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or closely related field, strong R&D focus.
• 12+ years in chemical process R&D with publications or patents.
• Expertise in catalysis, reaction engineering, process intensification, or materials science.
• Experience with process simulation/modeling software (e.g., COMSOL, Aspen Plus, CFD).
• Proven leadership of research teams and multi-project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead cutting-edge R&D projects in catalysis, polymerization, or advanced separations.
• Design and run lab and pilot-scale experiments to validate new chemical processes.
• Develop kinetic models and thermodynamic databases for novel reactions.
• Perform techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for new technologies.
• Collaborate with chemists, material scientists, and engineers across global R&D centers.

Skills

Leadership & mentorship

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Remote collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

COMSOL

Aspen Plus

CFD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the development of novel materials and sustainable chemical solutions, is looking for a highly experienced Principal Chemical Engineer to join their Research and Development division. This position is a fully remote role, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. You will be instrumental in driving innovation from ideation through to pilot-scale development, focusing on groundbreaking chemical processes. Your role will involve leading research initiatives, collaborating with international R&D teams, and translating laboratory discoveries into viable industrial applications. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity for a seasoned engineer passionate about pushing the boundaries of chemical science and engineering in a flexible, home-based work setting. Your work will directly impact the future product portfolio and technological advancements of our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cutting-edge research and development projects in areas such as catalysis, polymerization, or advanced separations.
• Design and execute laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to validate new chemical processes and technologies.
• Develop kinetic models and thermodynamic databases for novel reactions and processes.
• Perform techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for new chemical technologies.
• Collaborate closely with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers across globally distributed R&D centers.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, research proposals, and intellectual property disclosures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in chemical engineering and related scientific fields.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers, sharing knowledge and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and provide innovative solutions to complex R&D problems.
• Effectively communicate research findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field with a strong focus on R&D.
• A minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in chemical process research and development, demonstrating a strong publication or patent record.
• Proven expertise in at least one of the following areas: catalysis, reaction engineering, process intensification, or materials science.
• Extensive experience with process simulation and modeling software (e.g., COMSOL, Aspen Plus, CFD tools).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a creative approach to innovation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience working in a virtual or distributed research environment is a plus.
• A proactive and self-directed work ethic, essential for a remote role.
• Strong understanding of scale-up principles from lab to pilot and commercial scales.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary and bonus package, along with a comprehensive benefits suite including top-tier medical and retirement plans.
• As a fully remote position, you gain significant flexibility and the ability to work from your preferred location.
• Opportunities for significant impact on groundbreaking research and product development.
• Access to advanced research tools and resources.
• Continuous learning and professional development through workshops, conferences, and cross-functional projects.
• Our client fosters a highly collaborative and innovative research culture.
• We are committed to supporting our employees' work-life balance and professional aspirations.

This role, while remote, is connected to our client's strategic R&D hubs, with a strong connection to innovation originating from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.