Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Engineering

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Professional development

State-of-the-art facilities

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Materials Scientist with a Polymer Engineering focus to join our Randburg R&D team. You will lead the research and development of advanced polymer materials for diverse applications and drive significant advancements in polymer science.

The role requires 8+ years in polymer R&D, expertise in synthesis, processing, and characterization, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in materials science research and development, with a strong emphasis on polymers.
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing techniques.
• Proficiency with advanced analytical instrumentation relevant to polymer science.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymers and their behavior under various conditions.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis, modification, and formulation of novel polymer systems.
• Characterize polymer properties using mechanical testing, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), rheology, and spectroscopy (FTIR, NMR).
• Develop and optimize polymer processing techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, and film casting.
• Collaborate with product development teams to ensure that material properties meet application-specific requirements.
• Troubleshoot material and processing issues, providing innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Author technical reports, patents, and publications, disseminating research findings effectively to internal and external audiences in Randburg.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer processing

Characterization techniques

Leadership

Communication

Education

PhD or MSc in Materials Science/Polymer Science/Chemical Engineering

Tools

DSC/TGA

FTIR/NMR

Rheometer/Advanced instruments

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Materials Scientist with a specialization in Polymer Engineering to join their innovative R&D department in Randburg. This pivotal role involves leading the research and development of advanced polymer materials for a wide range of applications. You will be responsible for conceptualizing new polymer formulations, optimizing processing techniques, and thoroughly characterizing material properties. This position offers a unique opportunity to drive significant advancements in polymer science and contribute to cutting-edge product development within a dynamic organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis, modification, and formulation of novel polymer systems.


• Characterize polymer properties using a variety of techniques, including mechanical testing, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), rheology, and spectroscopy (FTIR, NMR).


• Develop and optimize polymer processing techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, and film casting.


• Collaborate with product development teams to ensure that material properties meet application-specific requirements.


• Troubleshoot material and processing issues, providing innovative solutions to complex challenges.


• Author technical reports, patents, and publications, disseminating research findings effectively to internal and external audiences in Randburg.

Requirements

• Ph. D. or Master's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in materials science research and development, with a strong emphasis on polymers.


• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing techniques.


• Proficiency with advanced analytical and testing instrumentation relevant to polymer science.


• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymers and their behavior under various conditions.


• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills, with the ability to guide research teams.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.


• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.


• Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance.


• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and polymer processing equipment.


• A collaborative and stimulating work environment dedicated to innovation in Polymer Engineering.