R&D Scientist (Junior) - Pretoria (On site)

Datafin IT Recruitment; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Datafin IT Recruitment is seeking a junior Chemical Engineer to join the R&D team in Pretoria. You will support development, testing and improvement of locally manufactured wound care products, applying biochemistry and chemical engineering principles to product performance and biocompatibility.

The role requires 0–2 years' experience, a relevant chemical engineering degree, and strong laboratory and communication skills.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years' relevant experience in a laboratory or project environment.
• Graduates encouraged to apply and gain practical experience.
• Exposure to biochemistry and/or medical devices or regulated environments (pharma/biotech).
• Hands-on laboratory ability with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support R&D in developing and improving wound care products.
• Assist with formulation, material selection and process development from concept to scale-up.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analyze results to inform recommendations.
• Contribute to technical documentation and compliance with quality systems.

Skills

Laboratory skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

English fluent

Education

Chemical engineering degree (BEng/BSc Eng/BTech)

Job description

ENVIRONMENT:

A trusted, well-established wound care brand providing advanced wound care products since 2002. The business was founded to offer an affordable alternative to expensive imported wound care products, giving smaller clinics and communities access to advanced care. Their team of scientists and engineers develops high-quality, locally manufactured products for the South African and global markets, supported by a dedicated national sales force. The are seeking a junior Chemical Engineer who is curious, analytical and keen to build a career in medical device and biochemistry-led product development. You would join the R&D team as a hands‑on contributor, supporting the development, testing and improvement of locally manufactured wound care products, while building a strong foundation in materials, biochemistry and regulated product development.

DUTIES:

Research & Product Development

• Support the development of new wound care products and the improvement of existing products.
• Assist with formulation, material selection and process development, from concept through to scale-up.
• Plan and carry out experiments and record results accurately.
• Keep up to date with new materials, technologies and developments in advanced wound care.

Laboratory & Testing

• Perform laboratory testing and analysis on raw materials, prototypes and finished products.
• Apply biochemistry and chemical engineering principles to product performance, stability and biocompatibility work.
• Analyse test data and report on findings and recommendations.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and safe working practices.

Quality, Regulatory & Documentation

• Contribute to technical documentation, protocols and test reports.
• Support product development in line with medical device quality and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with validation work, stability studies and product trials.
• Maintain accurate, traceable records in line with quality management procedures.

Collaboration & Reporting

• Work closely with production, quality, engineering and sales teams.
• Support technical queries from the sales and clinical teams where needed.
• Submit regular progress reports and present findings to the R&D team.
• Attend required business and project meetings.

REQUIREMENTS

• Degree or National Diploma in Chemical Engineering (BEng, BSc Eng or BTech). Honours or Masters an advantage.
• 0 to 2 years' relevant experience. Graduates with strong laboratory or project experience are encouraged to apply.
• Exposure to biochemistry and/or medical devices, or a related regulated environment such as pharmaceutical, biotech or medical manufacturing.
• Hands‑on laboratory ability with strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Reliable transport and the ability to work on site in Pretoria.

ATTRIBUTES

• Curious, analytical and detail-oriented, with a scientific approach to problem solving.
• Highly organised, with accurate record keeping.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Eager to learn and grow in a medical device environment.
• Knowledge of ISO 13485 or GMP advantageous but not essential.