Senior Chemical Research Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development support

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Research Engineer to drive innovation in its R&D division in Mossel Bay. You will conceptualize, design, and execute research projects to develop novel chemical materials and processes for commercial viability.

You will lead experiments, analyze data, and collaborate across marketing and production to align research with market needs. A Ph.D. with 8+ years of experience and strong publication/patent records are essential.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or a related field.
• 8+ years of chemical R&D experience with strong publication or patent record.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of new chemical products and processes from concept to pilot scale.
• Design and conduct experiments; analyze data to validate hypotheses and optimize formulations.
• Use advanced lab techniques for synthesis, characterization and performance testing.
• Collaborate with marketing and production to match research with market needs and manufacturing capabilities.
• Write research reports, patent applications and technical publications.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers to foster scientific inquiry.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Materials science

Catalysis

Spectroscopy

Experiment design

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry

Tools

Spectroscopy instruments

Chromatography

Microscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an experienced Senior Chemical Research Engineer to drive innovation and new product development within their R&D division in Mossel Bay . This role involves conceptualizing, designing, and executing research projects focused on developing novel chemical materials and processes. You will work at the forefront of chemical technology, collaborating with a team of scientists and engineers to translate laboratory discoveries into commercially viable solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity for a creative and results-oriented engineer to contribute to cutting-edge research in the vibrant coastal region of the Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new chemical products and processes, from concept through to pilot scale.
• Design and conduct experiments, meticulously analyzing data to validate hypotheses and optimize formulations.
• Utilize advanced laboratory techniques and instrumentation for synthesis, characterization, and performance testing.
• Collaborate closely with marketing and production teams to ensure research aligns with market needs and manufacturing capabilities.
• Write comprehensive research reports, patent applications, and technical publications.
• Mentor junior researchers and engineers, sharing expertise and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering , Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical research and development, with a strong publication or patent record.
• Proven expertise in areas such as polymer chemistry, materials science, or catalysis.
• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques like spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy.
• Excellent experimental design skills and a deep understanding of chemical kinetics and thermodynamics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information effectively.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Support for ongoing professional development, including attending scientific conferences.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
• Flexible work arrangements to accommodate research needs and personal balance.