Senior Chemical Engineer - R&D and Innovation

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Conference sponsorship

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer to join the R&D team in Randburg, Gauteng. The role focuses on conceptualizing, developing, and scaling novel chemical products and processes, translating lab breakthroughs into industrial applications.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering with 8+ years in chemical R&D, process development, or scale-up, and strong skills in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and process simulation.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or MSc in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical R&D, process development, or scale-up.
• Demonstrated track record of innovation and successful project completion.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment, pilot plants, and process simulation software.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with experience in technical documentation and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects from initial concept through to pilot-scale validation.
• Design and execute experiments to explore new chemical pathways and optimize reaction conditions.
• Develop scalable and economically viable manufacturing processes for new products.
• Utilize advanced process simulation and modeling techniques for design and analysis.
• Collaborate closely with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers to achieve project objectives.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and troubleshooting.
• Ensure all R&D activities adhere to safety, environmental, and intellectual property guidelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers within the R&D department.

Skills

R&D leadership

Process design

Scale-up

Reaction engineering

Thermodynamics

Separation processes

Technical communication

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

MSc in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in advanced materials and specialty chemicals, is seeking an imaginative and experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to join their Research & Development team in Randburg, Gauteng . This role is at the forefront of innovation, focusing on the conceptualization, development, and scaling of novel chemical products and processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific foundation, a passion for discovery, and a proven ability to translate laboratory breakthroughs into viable industrial applications. This exciting opportunity allows for significant contributions to cutting-edge technology within the dynamic chemical sector of Randburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects from initial concept through to pilot-scale validation.
• Design and execute experiments to explore new chemical pathways and optimize reaction conditions.
• Develop scalable and economically viable manufacturing processes for new products.
• Utilize advanced process simulation and modeling techniques for design and analysis.
• Collaborate closely with chemists, material scientists, and other engineers to achieve project objectives.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and troubleshooting.
• Ensure all R&D activities adhere to safety, environmental, and intellectual property guidelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and researchers within the R&D department.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical R&D, process development, or scale-up, preferably in specialty chemicals or advanced materials.
• Demonstrated track record of innovation and successful project completion.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment, pilot plants, and process simulation software.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with experience in technical documentation and presentations.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Experience with intellectual property management is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary and significant bonus potential tied to innovation and project success. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans are provided. Employees benefit from a generous 401(k) equivalent retirement plan with company matching. Opportunities for continuous learning, attending international conferences, and career advancement are strongly supported. This role offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement, combining essential lab/office time in Randburg with remote work options.