Principal Investigator - Chemical Engineering

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Industry-leading salary package

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement plan

Professional development opportunities

Generous paid time off

Wellness initiatives

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a leading chemical process R&D organization in Gauteng to recruit a Principal Investigator for their Tembisa facility. This on-site role seeks a visionary leader capable of translating lab discoveries into viable industrial processes.

You will guide a multidisciplinary team, manage complex projects, and shape the R&D roadmap while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance in a stimulating, well-equipped environment.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical process R&D.
• Experience leading research teams.
• Experience with process simulation and scale-up.
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple R&D projects end-to-end.
• Develop innovative chemical processes for efficiency and sustainability.
• Oversee lab operations, safety, and resources.
• Mentor a team of chemical engineers and scientists.
• Conduct experimental investigations and pilot-scale studies.
• Interpret data and guide project direction.
• Collaborate with external partners, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Prepare technical reports, grant proposals, and IP filings.
• Present findings to senior management and at international forums.
• Ensure research activities align with company objectives and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Project management

Chemical process optimization

Process simulation

Scale-up

Thermodynamics

Reaction engineering

Data analysis

Communication skills

Team mentorship

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

COMSOL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in chemical process development, is seeking an experienced Principal Investigator to lead innovative research projects at their facility in Tembisa, Gauteng . This senior position requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles and a passion for developing sustainable and efficient industrial processes. You will be responsible for guiding a team of talented researchers, managing project lifecycles, and translating laboratory discoveries into viable commercial applications. This is a critical on-site role requiring full dedication to our laboratory operations in Tembisa, Gauteng . The ideal candidate will possess a strong publication record and a history of successfully bringing new chemical technologies to fruition. We are looking for someone who can drive innovation and contribute to the strategic direction of our research and development efforts in the chemical sector. This role offers significant influence and the opportunity to shape the future of chemical engineering within the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple research and development projects from conception to completion.
• Develop innovative chemical processes and optimise existing ones for efficiency and sustainability.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring safety, compliance, and optimal resource utilisation.
• Mentor and guide a team of chemical engineers and scientists, fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Conduct rigorous experimental investigations and pilot-scale studies.
• Interpret complex data sets and make critical decisions regarding project direction.
• Collaborate with external partners, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, grant proposals, and intellectual property filings.
• Present findings and research strategies to senior management and at international forums.
• Ensure all research activities align with company objectives and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in chemical process research and development.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in process simulation, scale-up, and troubleshooting.
• Strong background in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proven ability to develop and implement novel chemical synthesis routes.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals and presentations at major conferences.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in relevant chemical engineering software (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL).
• Experience with pilot plant operations and technology transfer is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading salary package commensurate with experience and expertise. This includes a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, and long-term incentive plans.
• We provide comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with a generous retirement plan.
• Professional development is highly valued, with ample opportunities for further training, workshops, and conference participation.
• Employees are entitled to generous paid time off.
• Our facility in Tembisa, Gauteng is equipped with advanced R&D infrastructure, offering a stimulating work environment.
• We also support employee well‑being through various wellness initiatives.