Senior Materials Scientist - Advanced Composites

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Paid leave

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead the development of advanced composite materials for demanding industrial applications. You will design, characterize, and apply novel materials, translating research into tangible innovations within a state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environment.

The role requires a PhD with a minimum of six years in materials R&D, strong experience in material characterization, synthesis, and processing, and excellent collaboration and

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required and demonstrated expertise in materials science.
• Minimum 6 years of industry R&D experience in composites or related materials.
• Strong background in material characterization techniques and data interpretation.
• Experience with synthesis, processing, and design of advanced materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on advanced composite materials (polymers, ceramics, metals).
• Characterize material properties using SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC and mechanical testing.
• Develop and optimize synthesis and processing methods for new materials.
• Collaborate with design/manufacturing to ensure manufacturability and performance.
• Conduct failure analysis and root-cause investigations for material issues.
• Manage lab equipment and ensure safety compliance.
• Stay updated on new trends in materials science.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

Tools

FEA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in advanced materials engineering based in Durban , is seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist to join their innovative research and development team. This role focuses on the design, characterization, and application of novel composite materials for demanding industrial applications. You will play a critical role in pushing the boundaries of material science, contributing to the development of next-generation products that require exceptional strength, durability, and performance. This is an on-site position, offering a collaborative environment within our client's state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities in Durban . You will work closely with a team of engineers and scientists to translate fundamental research into tangible technological advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the development of advanced composite materials, including polymers, ceramics, and metals.
• Characterize material properties using a range of analytical techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, mechanical testing).
• Develop and optimize material synthesis and processing methods.
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure manufacturability and performance of new materials.
• Conduct failure analysis and root cause investigations for material-related issues.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in materials science.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of relevant industry experience in materials research and development, with a focus on composites.
• Expertise in material characterization techniques and interpretation of results.
• Proven experience in material design, synthesis, and processing.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, ceramic science, or metallurgy.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) for material modeling is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong project management capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, R&D environment.

Benefits

• attractive salary package
• comprehensive medical aid
• retirement fund contributions
• performance-based bonuses
• paid leave
• opportunities for career advancement within a leading industrial corporation