Senior Materials Scientist (Polymers)

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist specializing in polymers to lead R&D on design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced polymeric materials for high‑tech industries. You will mentor scientists and collaborate across teams to translate concept to commercialization.

PhD required with 5+ years in polymer science; expertise in synthesis, modification, and structure–property relationships; strong analytical and communication skills; experience leading projects

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of industrial or academic polymer research experience.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis and modification techniques.
• Strong experience with polymer characterization methods and structure–property analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D efforts in polymer science, focusing on synthesis and characterization.
• Design and execute experiments to develop polymers with tailored properties.
• Utilize spectroscopy, microscopy, DSC/TGA and mechanical testing for analysis.
• Investigate structure–property relationships to optimize performance.
• Collaborate with engineers to integrate polymers into products.
• Mentor junior scientists and communicate findings through reports and proposals.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Collaboration

Analytical thinking

Education

PhD in Materials Science or Polymer Science or Chemistry

Tools

Polymer synthesis techniques

Polymer modification techniques

Polymer characterization methods

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading advanced materials research and development company based in Bloemfontein , is seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist specializing in polymers. This role is critical for driving innovation in polymer science, focusing on the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of novel polymeric materials for various high-tech industries. You will lead research projects, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring new material solutions from concept to commercialization. The position offers a challenging and rewarding career in a state-of-the-art facility located in Bloemfontein . We are committed to advancing material science and seek individuals passionate about developing next-generation polymers with unique properties and enhanced performance. Join our dedicated team and make a tangible impact on technological advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts in polymer science, focusing on synthesis, characterization, and structure-property relationships.


• Design and execute experiments to develop new polymers with tailored properties (e.g., thermal, mechanical, electrical, optical).


• Utilize advanced characterization techniques such as spectroscopy (NMR, FTIR), microscopy (SEM, TEM), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), and mechanical testing.


• Investigate structure-property relationships to optimize material performance for specific applications.


• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to integrate new polymers into commercial products.


• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians.


• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and industry trends in polymer science.


• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and contribute to patent applications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of industrial or academic research experience in polymer science.


• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis and modification techniques.


• Strong experience with polymer characterization methods.


• Demonstrated ability to design and execute complex research projects.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.


• Experience in leading research projects or mentoring junior staff.


• Familiarity with polymer processing techniques is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off.

• Employees in Bloemfontein benefit from working in a cutting-edge research and development environment with access to advanced laboratory equipment and facilities.


• We support professional growth through continuous learning opportunities, conference attendance, and internal training programs.


• Our client fosters a collaborative and innovative culture that encourages creativity and problem-solving.


• Opportunities for career advancement are significant.


• The company is committed to employee well-being and work-life balance.