Senior Chemical Engineer - Polymerization Processes

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Access to advanced labs and pilotPlant

Professional growth opportunities

Generous vacation

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, South Africa, seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer with polymerization expertise to drive development, optimization, and scale-up of advanced polymerization techniques for high-performance polymers. You will apply polymer chemistry, reaction engineering, and process control to enhance quality, yields, and safety in a full-time Benoni-based role.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in polymerization development, a strong background in various polymerization mechanisms, and

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering with polymer specialization.
• At least 7 years of hands-on polymerization process development and scale‑up.
• Deep understanding of polymerization mechanisms: free radical, ionic, condensation.
• Proficiency with process simulation and modeling software for polymerization.
• Experience with polymer characterization techniques is advantageous.
• Strong chemical reaction engineering and process control knowledge.
• Proven ability to lead and manage R&D projects.
• Willingness to work full-time at Benoni facility.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and optimization of polymerization reactors and processes.
• Develop strategies to control molecular weight, tacticity, and morphology.
• Scale up processes from lab to pilot and commercial production.
• Research new monomers, catalysts, and methodologies.
• Troubleshoot operations and maintain process stability.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and quality compliance.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, process engineers, and production teams.
• Perform process simulations and predict reactor performance.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and process documentation.
• Stay updated with advancements in polymer science and manufacturing.

Skills

Polymerization

Reaction engineering

Process control

R&D project leadership

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Polymer characterization techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in polymer manufacturing, is actively seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer with specialized expertise in polymerization processes to join their innovative team in Benoni . This role is essential for driving the development, optimization, and scale-up of advanced polymerization techniques used in the production of high-performance polymers. You will apply your in-depth knowledge of polymer chemistry, reaction engineering, and process control to enhance product quality, improve yields, and ensure safe, sustainable operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mindset, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proven track record in managing complex chemical processes. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge polymer technology and advance your career within a dynamic industrial setting. The role requires full‑time dedication at our facility in Benoni .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of polymerization reactors and associated processes.
• Develop and implement strategies to control polymer properties such as molecular weight, tacticity, and morphology.
• Scale up polymerization processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial production scales.
• Conduct research and development to explore new monomers, catalysts, and polymerization methodologies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions to maintain process stability and product quality.
• Ensure all processes comply with stringent safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, process engineers, and production teams to achieve project objectives.
• Perform process simulations and modeling to predict reactor performance and optimize operating conditions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation, and research summaries.
• Stay current with advancements in polymer science, engineering, and manufacturing technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Polymer Engineering or Polymer Science.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in polymerization process development and scale‑up.
• Deep understanding of various polymerization mechanisms (e.g., free radical, ionic, condensation).
• Proficiency with process simulation and modeling software relevant to polymerization.
• Experience with polymer characterization techniques is advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of chemical reaction engineering and process control principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Proven ability to manage R&D projects from concept to implementation.
• Must be willing to work full‑time in our Benoni facility.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and pilot plant facilities.
• A stimulating work environment focused on innovation in polymer technology.
• Contribution to the development of advanced materials.
• Generous vacation and holiday time.