Senior Chemical Engineer - R&D

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer - R&D to lead development of environmentally friendly chemical processes and new products. You will design experiments, model processes, and drive scale-up from concept to pilot scale.

The role demands 6+ years of R&D experience, a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering, and strong data analysis, kinetics, and thermodynamics skills. Hybrid work arrangement supports lab work and strategic planning.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering with a strong research background.
• 6+ years of chemical R&D experience, preferably in specialty chemicals or sustainable technologies.
• Ability to design and conduct complex experiments and analyze data.
• Expertise in reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and process design.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, COMSOL).
• Familiarity with GC-MS, HPLC, and NMR is desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong project management and resource planning skills.
• Experience in scale-up and technology transfer is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute research projects to develop new chemical products and processes.
• Conduct literature reviews and patent searches to identify opportunities and inform research direction.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments, pilot plant studies, and data analysis.
• Develop process models and simulations to evaluate feasibility and optimize conditions.
• Troubleshoot technical challenges in R&D phases.
• Ensure safety, health, and environmental compliance in all activities.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and contribute to IP documentation.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, marketing, and regulatory teams.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers to foster scientific inquiry.
• Evaluate and recommend new analytical techniques and lab equipment.

Skills

Chemical kinetics

Thermodynamics

Process design

Data analysis

Experimental design

Project management

Communication

Independent work

Education

PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

COMSOL

GC-MS

HPLC

NMR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic innovator in sustainable chemical solutions, is looking for a highly qualified Senior Chemical Engineer - R&D to join their esteemed research and development department in Pretoria, Gauteng . This role is central to exploring novel chemical pathways and developing environmentally friendly processes. You will lead research initiatives, conceptualize new product development, and optimize existing methodologies to meet market demands and sustainability goals. The position requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, with a strong emphasis on experimental design and data analysis. You will collaborate with a team of scientists and engineers to drive innovation from concept to pilot scale. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between focused lab work and remote strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and execute research projects aimed at developing new chemical products and processes.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews and patent searches to identify opportunities and inform research direction.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments, pilot plant studies, and data analysis.
• Develop process models and simulations to evaluate feasibility and optimize reaction conditions.
• Troubleshoot technical challenges encountered during research and development phases.
• Ensure all research activities comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and contribute to intellectual property documentation.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, marketing, and regulatory affairs.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation.
• Evaluate and recommend new analytical techniques and laboratory equipment.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field with a strong research background.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical research and development, preferably in specialty chemicals or sustainable technologies.
• Proven ability to design and conduct complex experiments and analyze data effectively.
• Expertise in chemical reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and process design.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, COMSOL) is essential.
• Familiarity with various analytical techniques (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, NMR) is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage timelines and resources.
• Experience in scale-up and technology transfer is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a retirement fund, and paid time off. Emphasis is placed on continuous learning, with opportunities for further education, training, and attending industry conferences. This hybrid role, based in Pretoria, Gauteng , provides flexibility and engagement in cutting-edge R&D. You will work in modern laboratory facilities and contribute to impactful innovations in the chemical industry. Potential for career progression within the R&D division is significant. Join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of chemical science and engineering.