Process Chemist - Research & Development

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Chemist for its R&D team in Klerksdorp, North West. You will design experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes, and support pilot plant trials and scale-up to production.

The role requires a strong background in organic synthesis, reaction kinetics, and process engineering principles, with hands-on experience in process development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on organic synthesis and process development.
• 4+ years hands-on experience in chemical process development and optimization in an industrial R&D setting.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques for synthesis, purification, and analysis (NMR, HPLC, GC-MS).
• Experience with process safety evaluation and hazard analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes.
• Conduct laboratory-scale reactions, analyze results, and interpret data to inform process improvements.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for characterizing raw materials, intermediates, and final products.
• Prepare detailed reports on experimental findings, process parameters, and scale-up recommendations.
• Participate in pilot plant trials, troubleshoot process issues, and gather data for full-scale implementation.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists and chemical engineers to ensure seamless transfer of processes from lab to plant.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Process development

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

NMR

HPLC

GC-MS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking chemical company specializing in innovative material science, is looking for a dedicated Process Chemist to join their Research and Development team in Klerksdorp, North West . This role is crucial for developing and optimizing chemical processes for new product introductions and enhancing existing manufacturing methods. You will be involved in laboratory-scale experimentation, pilot plant trials, and supporting the scale-up of processes to commercial production. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in organic chemistry, reaction kinetics, and process engineering principles, coupled with hands‑on experience in process development. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking chemical innovations and work within a collaborative environment focused on scientific advancement in South Africa . You will play a key role in translating laboratory discoveries into viable industrial processes, impacting the company's product pipeline and market competitiveness. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring processes are safe, efficient, and scalable.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes.
• Conduct laboratory-scale reactions, analyze results, and interpret data to inform process improvements.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for characterizing raw materials, intermediates, and final products.
• Prepare detailed reports on experimental findings, process parameters, and scale-up recommendations.
• Participate in pilot plant trials, troubleshoot process issues, and gather data for full-scale implementation.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists and chemical engineers to ensure seamless transfer of processes from lab to plant.
• Ensure all laboratory activities are conducted in compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in chemical synthesis, process technology, and analytical techniques.
• Contribute to intellectual property development through invention disclosures and patent applications.
• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records and documentation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on organic synthesis and process development.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in chemical process development and optimization in an industrial R&D setting.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques for synthesis, purification, and analysis (e.g., NMR, HPLC, GC-MS).
• Experience with process safety evaluation and hazard analysis.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and scale-up principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and experimental design skills.
• Good technical writing and communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented research environment.
• Familiarity with pilot plant operations is a plus.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements in the chemical industry.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance package.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending scientific conferences.
• Access to advanced laboratory equipment and research facilities.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Potential for relocation assistance to Klerksdorp, North West .
• Exposure to diverse chemical R&D projects.