Senior Materials Scientist (Polymers)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonus

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Conferences funding

Paid time off

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist (Polymers) to lead R&D efforts in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role focuses on developing next‑generation polymer materials for diverse applications, including sustainable packaging and coatings.

You will guide projects, collaborate across teams, and shape the material roadmap. The candidate will have deep expertise in polymer chemistry, processing, and characterization, plus a track record of delivering innovative material solutions in a

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years post-doctoral or industry research experience in polymer science and engineering.
• Expertise in polymer synthesis (e.g., free radical, condensation, anionic polymerization) and modification.
• Strong understanding of polymer structure–property relationships.
• Proficiency with polymer characterization techniques and instrumentation.
• Experience with polymer processing equipment and methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on synthesis, modification, and characterization of novel polymer materials.
• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate polymer properties, including mechanical, thermal, rheological, and surface characteristics.
• Develop and optimize polymer processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing).
• Characterize polymers using techniques such as GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR, SEM, and AFM.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate laboratory discoveries into commercially viable materials.
• Stay current with latest advancements in polymer science and related fields.
• Author technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, providing technical guidance and support.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Polymer processing

Structure-property relationships

Project management

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Polymer Science or closely related field

Tools

GPC

DSC

TGA

FTIR

NMR

SEM

AFM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials innovation, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Materials Scientist specializing in polymers to join their R&D team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role is crucial for the development of next-generation polymer materials for diverse applications, including advanced manufacturing, sustainable packaging, and specialty coatings. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in polymer chemistry, synthesis, characterization, and processing, coupled with a proven track record of delivering innovative material solutions. You will lead key research projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to the company's strategic material roadmap. This is an exceptional opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility in Mossel Bay and make a significant impact on the future of polymer science. The company values pioneering research and practical application.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on the synthesis, modification, and characterization of novel polymer materials.


• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate polymer properties, including mechanical, thermal, rheological, and surface characteristics.


• Develop and optimize polymer processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing).


• Characterize polymers using techniques such as GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR, SEM, and AFM.


• Collaborate with product development teams to translate laboratory discoveries into commercially viable materials.


• Stay current with the latest advancements in polymer science, technology, and related fields.


• Author technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.


• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, providing technical guidance and support.


• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety procedures and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

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


• A minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in polymer science and engineering.


• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis (e.g., free radical, condensation, anionic polymerization) and modification.


• Strong understanding of polymer structure-property relationships.


• Proficiency with polymer characterization techniques and instrumentation.


• Experience with polymer processing equipment and methods is essential.


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


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.


• Proven ability to manage research projects effectively and work collaboratively in a team environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, reflecting the seniority of the role. A comprehensive benefits package includes premium health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a robust retirement savings plan. Generous opportunities for professional development, including funding for conferences and continuing education, are available. Ample paid time off, including annual leave, sick days, and public holidays, is provided. Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates moving to Mossel Bay. This role offers a chance to innovate within the vibrant coastal environment of the Western Cape.