Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

State-of-the-art lab equipment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist in Klerksdorp, North West, to lead polymer research, synthesis, and formulation development for automotive-grade materials. The role focuses on designing advanced polymers, evaluating structure-property relationships, and translating lab findings into scalable processing methods.

You will mentor junior scientists, collaborate with engineers, and contribute to publications and patents.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Strong theoretical knowledge in polymer chemistry and polymer physics; translate research into applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of new polymer formulations and synthesis methods.
• Characterize material properties using FTIR, NMR, GPC/SEC, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM.
• Investigate structure–property relationships and optimize processing techniques.
• Collaborate with engineers to integrate new materials into product designs.
• Mentor junior scientists and maintain detailed lab records.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Polymer chemistry

FTIR

NMR

GPC/SEC

DSC

TGA

SEM

TEM

Project management

Independent work

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Materials Science/Polymer Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Tools

Computational polymer modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials development for the automotive sector, is seeking a talented Senior Materials Scientist with expertise in polymer chemistry. This role is based at our cutting-edge research and development facility in Klerksdorp, North West. You will be instrumental in the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel polymeric materials with enhanced properties for demanding applications. This position requires a deep understanding of polymer science, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to translate research findings into practical material solutions. Join a team of innovators dedicated to shaping the future of material technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new polymer formulations and synthesis methods.
• Characterize material properties using a variety of analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, thermal analysis, microscopy).
• Investigate structure-property relationships in polymeric materials.
• Develop and optimize processing techniques for novel polymers.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to integrate new materials into product designs.
• Troubleshoot material-related issues during product development and manufacturing.
• Maintain detailed laboratory records and contribute to scientific publications and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians in the materials science department.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in polymer science and materials engineering.
• Manage projects effectively, ensuring timely delivery of results.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience in polymer chemistry, including polymerization techniques and polymer physics.
• Proficiency with analytical instrumentation such as FTIR, NMR, GPC/SEC, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM.
• Experience with computational modeling of polymers is a plus.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information effectively.
• Proven ability to manage research projects and guide junior team members.
• Demonstrated success in developing innovative material solutions.
• Willingness to work on‑site in Klerksdorp, North West.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and retirement plans, and significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. You will work with state‑of‑the‑art equipment in a collaborative research environment. This role provides the chance to contribute to groundbreaking material innovations in the automotive industry. Located in Klerksdorp, North West, this position offers an exciting career path for a passionate materials scientist.