Research And Development Scientist-Engineer

African Recruitment and Training; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A scientific development firm based in Pretoria seeks a qualified professional to support product development and regulatory activities. The ideal candidate has strong analytical skills, experience in scientific writing, and a relevant degree. Key responsibilities include managing product dossiers and improving manufacturing processes. This role requires effective communication and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in scientific technical / academic writing.
• Experience in medical device or pharmaceutical development is advantageous.
• Able to work with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Support end-to-end product development and maintain existing products.
• Solve complex technical challenges affecting formulations.
• Compile complete dossiers for new products and ensure compliance.

Skills

Technical problem-solving

Analytical abilities

Strong written communication skills

Project management

Education

Tertiary degree in Science or Engineering

Masters degree (MSc / MEng)

Postgraduate specialization in Chemistry / Chemical Engineering

Job description

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include supporting end-to-end product development (formulation, design controls, validation, documentation, and transfer to production) as well as maintaining existing products to ensure quality, stability, safety, and regulatory compliance in a GMP/ISO environment.

The role involves both collaboration with internal teams and independently managing workstreams. Independent research and product development: Plan, design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments; Conduct literature reviews and self-directed research to support product development; Lead the development, optimisation, and validation of formulations, test methods, and processes; Manage multiple tasks and long-term development projects simultaneously.

Technical problem-solving and process support: Solve complex technical challenges affecting formulations or manufacturing; Support and improve production processes and resolve raw material or process-related issues; Perform material acceptance, supplier evaluations, and introduce new materials / equipment as needed; Perform data trending, technical assessments, and stability evaluations; Quality, compliance and documentation: Maintain accurate, complete technical documentation in line with QMS requirements; Participate in product risk management activities, including hazard identification, assessment, and mitigation; Ensure controlled documents (procedures, forms, lists) remain accurate and updated; Support nonconformity investigations and CAPA activities.

Regulatory responsibilities: Compile complete dossiers for new products (Technical Files, Design Files, Clinical Evaluation inputs, Biocompatibility inputs) per international standards; Ensure existing product dossiers remain updated and aligned with regulatory requirements; Support CE marking, SAHPRA submissions, and international regulatory activities; Ensure labelling, IFUs, and end-user information are compliant and current; Support PMS/PMCF activities.

Cross-functional and external support: Provide technical input to Quality, Production, and Procurement teams; Assist with technical and scientific client queries; Train and support staff on testing equipment and technical processes.

Requirements

• Tertiary degree in Science or Engineering.
• Masters degree (MSc / MEng) strongly preferred.
• Postgraduate specialisation in Chemistry / Chemical Engineering advantageous.
• Experience in scientific technical / academic writing.
• Experience in medical device or pharmaceutical development, manufacturing, or regulatory environments is advantageous, but not required.

Independence

• Able to work with minimal supervision after onboarding.
• Takes ownership of tasks and solves problems independently.
• Proactively identifies knowledge gaps and self-learns to close them.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking: Strong analytical and troubleshooting ability.
• Can break down complex or ambiguous problems into clear action steps and propose solutions and alternatives without being prompted.
• Multi-tasking and organisation: Able to manage several projects at the same time; Comfortable shifting between priorities as needed; Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Learning attitude and curiosity: Eager to learn new systems, regulations, technologies, and scientific concepts; Comfortable reading, researching, and understanding background material independently.

Behaviour and Work Ethic

• Proactive, self-motivated, and accountable.
• Resilient under pressure and able to make progress despite uncertainty.
• High attention to detail, integrity, and professionalism.

Communication

• Strong written communication skills, especially for technical / scientific writing.
• Able to communicate effectively across departments.
• Fluent in English (written and verbal).