Senior Materials Scientist

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead critical research initiatives within its advanced materials division, guiding projects from conception to prototype development.

You will leverage expertise in material behavior and characterization, including SEM, TEM, XRD, and spectroscopy, to drive structure–property relationships and material design in a collaborative team. This is a high-impact role with opportunities for advanced training.

Qualifications

• PhD required or equivalent research leadership experience.
• Proven ability to lead research projects from concept to prototype.
• Strong background in materials characterization and analysis.
• Excellent communication and teamwork in cross-functional environments.
• Deep understanding of material physics, chemistry, and processing.
• Experience publishing technical reports or patents is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and characterization of novel materials.
• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate material performance under various conditions.
• Utilize SEM, TEM, XRD and spectroscopy for material analysis.
• Develop structure-property relationships to guide material design.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing to transition materials to production.
• Prepare technical reports, publications, and patent applications.

Skills

Project leadership

Research planning

Communication

Material physics

Material processing

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Senior Materials Scientist to lead critical research initiatives within their advanced materials division located in Rustenburg . This role is central to the development of next-generation materials with enhanced properties for various industrial applications. You will guide research projects from conception through to prototype development, leveraging your deep understanding of material behavior and characterization. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact, working with a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and characterization of novel materials, including polymers, ceramics, and composites.
• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate material performance under various conditions (e.g., thermal, mechanical, electrical).
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, and spectroscopy for material analysis.
• Develop structure-property relationships and use this knowledge to guide material design and optimization.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to facilitate the transition of new materials into production.
• Write detailed technical reports, publications, and patent applications related to material innovations in Rustenburg .

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in materials research and development.
• Extensive hands-on experience with advanced materials characterization techniques.
• Demonstrated success in leading research projects and achieving defined technical objectives.
• Strong understanding of material physics , chemistry, and processing.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team setting.

Benefits

• Highly attractive salary package and potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and extended leave policies.
• Opportunities for professional growth, attending industry conferences, and further training.
• Access to world-class research facilities and cutting-edge equipment in Rustenburg .