Principal Chemical Research Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

Education funding

Conference attendance and sabbaticals

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Chemical Research Engineer to lead high-impact research in the advanced materials sector from Pretoria. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on development of novel chemical processes and materials for emerging applications, driving scientific discovery and scalable solutions.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering, brings 10+ years of post-doctoral experience and a proven track record in synthesis, scale-up, and publication.

Qualifications

• Requires PhD in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research experience with strong publication record.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex, multi-disciplinary research projects from concept to proof-of-concept.
• Develop innovative synthesis routes and process methodologies for novel materials.
• Conduct experimental investigations including synthesis, characterization and optimization.
• Analyze complex data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate with academia and industry to drive innovation and partnerships.
• Mentor junior researchers and promote scientific excellence.
• Publish research results and contribute to patents and technical reports.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Grant writing

Communication

Collaboration

Travel readiness

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected research and development powerhouse in the advanced materials sector, is looking for a Principal Chemical Research Engineer to join their innovation hub in Pretoria, Gauteng. This senior role is responsible for leading groundbreaking research projects aimed at developing novel chemical processes and materials for emerging applications. You will be at the forefront of scientific discovery, translating complex theoretical concepts into practical, scalable solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, extensive research experience, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of chemical science. This position offers the chance to shape the future of material science and contribute to sustainable technological advancements. The role is structured as hybrid, offering flexibility while fostering essential in-person collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex, multi-disciplinary research projects from conceptualization to proof-of-concept.
• Develop innovative chemical synthesis routes and process methodologies for novel materials.
• Conduct extensive experimental investigations, including laboratory synthesis, characterization, and process optimization.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, drawing conclusions and making recommendations for further research.
• Collaborate with academic institutions and industrial partners to foster innovation and explore new research avenues.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and engineers, sharing expertise and promoting a culture of scientific excellence.
• Prepare high-impact research publications, patent applications, and technical reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the research department, identifying new opportunities and technologies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research experience, with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated expertise in chemical synthesis, process development, and scale-up of new materials.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and manage complex R&D projects effectively.
• Experience with advanced analytical techniques for material characterization.
• Excellent understanding of theoretical chemistry, thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics.
• Strong proposal writing and grant acquisition skills are advantageous.
• Exceptional problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a research-intensive environment.
• Willingness to travel for conferences and collaborations.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance bonuses. We provide significant opportunities for professional growth, including funding for continued education, conference attendance, and research sabbaticals. This Pretoria-based role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between focused independent work and essential team collaboration. Join a leading research organization dedicated to advancing scientific frontiers.