Remote Senior Chemical Engineer - R&D

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for a fully remote role in South Africa to drive R&D in advanced materials. You will conceptualize, design, and scale up novel chemical processes from lab to pilot scale while working with a distributed team of researchers.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering with at least 7 years of R&D experience, and demonstrates expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field required.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in chemical process R&D for advanced materials.
• Proven track record in developing and scaling up novel chemical processes.
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools; strong remote collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of new chemical processes for advanced materials synthesis.
• Design and execute lab-scale experiments to validate concepts.
• Develop and optimize reaction, separation, and purification steps.
• Perform process modeling and scalability analyses.
• Collaborate with dispersed teams to achieve project goals.
• Prepare technical reports, patents, and publications.
• Oversee scale-up from lab to pilot plant.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers.

Skills

R&D leadership

Remote collaboration

Project management

Communication

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

COMSOL

Aspen HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking research and development firm specializing in advanced materials, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Chemical Engineer to join their innovation team. This is a fully remote position, enabling you to contribute to groundbreaking projects from the convenience of your home office. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and scaling up novel chemical processes for the synthesis of new materials. This role demands a blend of creativity, rigorous scientific inquiry, and practical engineering expertise. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in research, a passion for innovation, and the ability to lead challenging R&D initiatives in a virtual collaboration setting. Join us in pushing the boundaries of chemical science and developing next-generation materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new chemical processes for advanced materials synthesis.
• Design and execute laboratory-scale experiments to validate process concepts.
• Develop and optimize reaction conditions, separation techniques, and purification methods.
• Perform process modeling and simulation to predict scalability and efficiency.
• Collaborate with research scientists and other engineers in a remote environment to achieve project goals.
• Prepare detailed research reports, patents, and technical publications.
• Oversee the scale-up of promising processes from lab to pilot plant.
• Ensure all research activities comply with safety and environmental regulations.
• Evaluate and implement new analytical techniques for process monitoring and product characterization.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers involved in R&D projects.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field with a strong emphasis on R&D.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical process research and development, particularly in advanced materials.
• Proven track record of successfully developing and scaling up novel chemical processes.
• Expertise in chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., COMSOL, Aspen HYSYS) and data analysis tools.
• Experience in managing R&D projects, including budget and timeline management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for effective remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and deliver high-quality results remotely.
• Experience with patent drafting and scientific publishing is highly desirable.
• Must possess a reliable home office setup with high-speed internet.

Benefits

This role offers an exceptional salary, comprehensive health benefits, stock options, and a flexible work schedule. As a fully remote position, you can work from anywhere in South Africa, with an ideal base near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . Our client fosters a culture of innovation and provides ample opportunities for professional growth and contribution to cutting-edge research. Be part of a pioneering team that is shaping the future of materials science.