Principal Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Stock options

Paid time off

Professional development

Executive bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead polymer R&D in Mossel Bay. The role focuses on discovering new polymer materials, formulating advanced polymers, and optimizing polymerization processes to meet market needs.

The position requires a Ph.D. in polymer-related fields and 10+ years of experience, with a proven track record in leadership, collaboration, and strategic project management. Hybrid work arrangements are offered.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a related field with extensive polymer R&D experience.
• 10+ years of progressive polymer R&D experience with publications or patents.
• Expertise in polymerization techniques and polymer characterization methods.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D for novel polymer materials and formulations with defined properties.
• Design experiments to study polymerization kinetics and process optimization.
• Use characterization techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, FTIR) to analyze polymers.
• Manage multiple projects and ensure milestones are met.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to chemists and material scientists.
• Collaborate with product development, engineering, and manufacturing for tech transfer.

Skills

Polymer Chemistry

Leadership

Mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Research planning

Problem solving

Education

Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry

Ph.D. in Materials Science

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

GPC

DSC

TGA

NMR

FTIR

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Scientist to lead research and development initiatives in Polymer Chemistry . Based in Mossel Bay , this role offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement. You will be responsible for driving the discovery of new polymer materials, developing advanced polymer formulations, and optimizing polymerization processes to meet market demands. This senior position requires a deep understanding of polymer science, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to manage complex research projects from conception to completion. You will work closely with a team of scientists and engineers, contributing to strategic R&D decisions and mentoring junior researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel polymer materials and formulations with specific properties and functionalities.
• Design and execute experiments to investigate polymerization kinetics, mechanisms, and process optimization.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, FTIR) to analyze polymer structure and properties.
• Manage multiple research projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of project milestones and objectives.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemists and material scientists.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, engineering, and manufacturing, to ensure successful technology transfer.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Organic Chemistry, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in polymer research and development, with a strong publication record or patent history.
• Deep expertise in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, anionic, condensation) and polymer characterization methods.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor technical staff.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, creativity, and strategic thinking.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate in a hybrid environment.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and executive-level bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous retirement plan and stock options.
• Significant paid time off and professional development allowances.
• Opportunity to shape the future of polymer innovation and lead cutting-edge research projects.