Senior Materials Scientist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead R&D projects on advanced materials, focusing on synthesis, processing, and characterization to drive product development.

The role requires a PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related field and at least five years of hands-on industrial experience, with strong skills in SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy, and other characterization methods.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field with at least 5 years of hands-on R&D experience.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in materials research and development, preferably in an industrial setting.
• Proficiency in a wide range of materials characterization techniques (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing).
• Demonstrated experience with material synthesis and processing methods.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in various material classes (e.g., polymers, ceramics, composites, metals).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Proven ability to manage research projects effectively and deliver results within timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced materials.
• Develop and implement new methodologies for material testing and performance evaluation.
• Analyze and interpret complex material data using advanced characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers and chemists, to translate research findings into viable product development.
• Investigate material failures and propose solutions to improve product reliability and performance.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the overall scientific direction of the R&D department.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety standards and efficient management of research resources.

Skills

Materials characterization

Synthesis & processing

Structure-property relationships

Analytical skills

Project management

Scientific communication

Computational modeling

Education

PhD in Materials Science or related field

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Microscopy

Thermal analysis

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in advanced materials, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist to join their dedicated research and development team based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This critical role involves driving innovation in the development and characterization of novel materials for various industrial applications. You will lead projects focused on enhancing material properties, exploring new synthesis techniques, and ensuring the quality and performance of our client's material products. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of material science principles, experimental design, and analytical techniques. This position is crucial for our client's commitment to technological advancement and sustainable material solutions. Located in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, this role requires an on-site presence to facilitate hands‑on laboratory work and close collaboration with the engineering and production teams. We are looking for a motivated individual who is passionate about materials research and development and eager to contribute to impactful projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced materials.
• Develop and implement new methodologies for material testing and performance evaluation.
• Analyze and interpret complex material data using advanced characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including engineers and chemists, to translate research findings into viable product development.
• Investigate material failures and propose solutions to improve product reliability and performance.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the overall scientific direction of the R&D department.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety standards and efficient management of research resources.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in materials research and development, preferably in an industrial setting.
• Proficiency in a wide range of materials characterization techniques (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing).
• Demonstrated experience with material synthesis and processing methods.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in various material classes (e.g., polymers, ceramics, composites, metals).
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Proven ability to manage research projects effectively and deliver results within timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Employees have access to cutting‑edge laboratory facilities.
• Chance to work on innovative projects that impact various industries.
• The company is committed to employee growth and provides a supportive work environment in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• You will be part of a forward‑thinking team dedicated to excellence in materials science.