Senior Chemical Engineer - Research & Development

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer to join a pioneering R&D team in Klerksdorp, North West. Lead bench-scale work, design pilot studies, and scale up processes for new products in a dynamic environment.

You will analyze data, develop models, and collaborate across chemists and engineers to drive innovative chemical solutions, while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. A senior candidate with strong communication will thrive.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a related field
• 7+ years of experience in chemical R&D with focus on new product and process innovation
• Experience with laboratory equipment, analytical instrumentation, and process simulation software
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation technologies
• Experience in scale-up from lab to pilot plant and commercial production

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to develop new chemical products and processes
• Design and execute pilot plant trials to validate process scalability and feasibility
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive technical reports
• Collaborate with the R&D team, chemists, and other engineers to achieve project goals
• Develop and refine process models and simulations for new product development
• Troubleshoot technical challenges encountered during product development and scale-up
• Research and evaluate new raw materials and technologies for potential application
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations
• Prepare documentation for patent applications and regulatory submissions
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and at industry conferences

Skills

Laboratory equipment & instrumentation

Process simulation software

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Chemical Engineer to join their innovative Research & Development team in Klerksdorp, North West. This role is central to developing novel chemical products and optimizing existing formulations. You will be involved in bench-scale experimentation, pilot plant studies, and the scale-up of new processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in chemical engineering, coupled with hands-on experience in R&D environments. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the cutting edge of chemical innovation within a supportive and dynamic team based in the North West province. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of chemical science and providing our researchers with the resources and environment needed to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments to develop new chemical products and processes.
• Design and execute pilot plant trials to validate process scalability and feasibility.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive technical reports.
• Collaborate with the R&D team, chemists, and other engineers to achieve project goals.
• Develop and refine process models and simulations for new product development.
• Troubleshoot technical challenges encountered during product development and scale-up.
• Research and evaluate new raw materials and technologies for potential application.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare documentation for patent applications and regulatory submissions.
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and at industry conferences.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical research and development, with a focus on new product and process innovation.
• Proven experience with laboratory equipment, analytical instrumentation, and process simulation software.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation technologies.
• Experience in scale-up from lab to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple R&D projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with intellectual property management is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and performance-based bonuses.
• We provide extensive opportunities for professional growth, including access to advanced training, conferences, and further education support.
• A commitment to work-life balance is maintained through flexible working arrangements where applicable.
• This role in Klerksdorp offers the chance to be part of a leading R&D team and contribute to significant advancements in the chemical industry.