Principal Research Engineer - Materials Science

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Health benefits

Stock options

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay is seeking a visionary Principal Research Engineer to lead pioneering work in Materials Science. This senior role will guide research teams, translate discoveries into prototypes, and shape the future of materials engineering within a forward-thinking R&D organization that values innovation, with a flexible work arrangement.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 10+ years of progressive leadership in materials research, strong publication/patent activity, and excellent

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in materials research and development, with a strong focus on leadership.
• Proven track record of leading complex research projects and delivering successful outcomes.
• Extensive knowledge of materials characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC) and materials processing methods.
• Experience in translating fundamental research into practical engineering solutions and product development.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct research initiatives focused on the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials.
• Develop innovative strategies for material processing, performance testing, and application integration.
• Mentor and guide a team of research scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to define research objectives and project roadmaps.
• Author high-impact research papers, patents, and technical reports to disseminate scientific findings.
• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment and ensure safety protocols are strictly adhered to.

Skills

Leadership

Materials characterization

Project management

Communication

Innovation

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science/Engineering/Chemistry

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

DSC

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Principal Research Engineer to lead their pioneering work in Materials Science based in Richards Bay . This senior role will be at the forefront of developing novel materials with advanced properties for diverse industrial applications, driving innovation from concept to prototype. You will guide research teams, foster strategic partnerships, and ensure the successful translation of scientific discoveries into tangible technological advancements. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a distinguished materials scientist to shape the future of materials engineering within a progressive research and development organization that values creativity and impactful solutions, with a flexible work arrangement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and direct research initiatives focused on the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials.
• Develop innovative strategies for material processing, performance testing, and application integration.
• Mentor and guide a team of research scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to define research objectives and project roadmaps.
• Author high-impact research papers, patents, and technical reports to disseminate scientific findings.
• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment and ensure safety protocols are strictly adhered to.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science , Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in materials research and development, with a strong focus on innovation and leadership.
• Proven track record of leading complex research projects and delivering successful outcomes.
• Extensive knowledge of materials characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC) and materials processing methods.
• Experience in translating fundamental research into practical engineering solutions and product development.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and project management skills.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including a significant annual bonus.
• Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous stock options and long-term incentive plans.
• Significant budget for professional development and continuous learning.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects with global impact.