Senior Chemist - Polymer Synthesis and Characterization

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual performance bonus

Health & wellness benefits

Professional development opportunities

Career progression

Well-equipped laboratories

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Chemist to lead polymer synthesis and characterization initiatives. You will design and execute advanced synthesis experiments, characterize polymers using GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC and TGA, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop new materials for industrial applications.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Polymer Chemistry or a related field, with at least five years of hands-on experience, strong analytical skills, and the ability

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry or related field with a strong focus on polymers.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Proficiency with advanced analytical instrumentation relevant to polymer science.
• Strong understanding of polymerization mechanisms and kinetics.
• Experience in formulating polymers for industrial applications.
• Excellent problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct advanced polymer synthesis experiments using various polymerization techniques.
• Characterize synthesized polymers using GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, and TGA.
• Investigate structure-property relationships of novel polymer systems.
• Develop and optimize polymer formulations for specific application requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to scale up processes and introduce new materials.
• Troubleshoot synthesis and characterization challenges.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to technical reports and publications.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and good laboratory practices.
• Mentor junior chemists and contribute to a collaborative research environment.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Analytical instrumentation

Polymerization kinetics

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Tools

GPC

NMR

FTIR

DSC

TGA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialty chemicals company, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Chemist to lead initiatives in polymer synthesis and characterization. This on-site role, based in Vereeniging, Gauteng , is central to developing innovative polymer solutions for diverse industrial applications. You will be responsible for designing and executing complex synthesis experiments, characterizing novel polymer structures, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring new products to market. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in polymer chemistry coupled with extensive practical laboratory experience. Join our dedicated R&D team in Vereeniging, Gauteng , and contribute to cutting-edge material science.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct advanced polymer synthesis experiments using various polymerization techniques.
• Characterize synthesized polymers using techniques such as GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, and TGA.
• Investigate structure-property relationships of novel polymer systems.
• Develop and optimize polymer formulations for specific application requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to scale up processes and introduce new materials.
• Troubleshoot synthesis and characterization challenges.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to technical reports and publications.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and good laboratory practices.
• Mentor junior chemists and contribute to a collaborative research environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related field with a strong focus on polymers.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Proficiency with advanced analytical instrumentation relevant to polymer science.
• Strong understanding of polymerization mechanisms and kinetics.
• Experience in formulating polymers for industrial applications.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a creative approach to research.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective teamwork.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a dedicated R&D team in Vereeniging, Gauteng.
• Commitment to laboratory safety and quality standards.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, annual performance bonuses, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and ample opportunities for professional development and career progression. Employees will have access to well-equipped laboratories and be part of an innovative and supportive company culture. This position is based in Vereeniging, Gauteng , offering a strategic location within a key industrial hub. We are committed to fostering scientific excellence and employee growth.