Senior Materials Scientist - Upington Solar Farm Expansion

Placements24; Upington; Sur place; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead R&D and testing for PV modules and related infrastructure on a major solar project.

The role focuses on material degradation, aging protocols, and performance optimization in arid conditions, collaborating with engineering teams to deliver durable, efficient solar installations.

Qualifications

• Ph.D./M.S. in a relevant field with strong research background.
• Hands-on experience with polymers, photovoltaics, or outdoor material performance.
• Experience with material characterization techniques (spectroscopy, microscopy, mechanical testing).

Responsabilités

• Lead material selection and testing for PV modules, mounting structures and electrical systems.
• Investigate degradation mechanisms like UV exposure, corrosion, and thermal cycling.
• Develop protocols for accelerated aging and environmental stress testing.
• Perform failure analysis to identify root causes of defects or performance issues.
• Recommend advanced materials and coatings to improve module efficiency and lifespan.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations for site selection and maintenance strategies.
• Manage laboratory testing equipment and ensure data integrity.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and recommendations for stakeholders.

Connaissances

Materials science

Polymer science

PV technology

Analytical thinking

Communication

Formation

Ph.D. in Materials Science or related

M.S. in Materials Science or related

Outils

Spectroscopy

Microscopy

Mechanical testing

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering renewable energy developer, is seeking a highly specialized Senior Materials Scientist to contribute to the expansion of a major solar farm near **Upington, Northern Cape**. This role is critical for ensuring the long-term performance, durability, and efficiency of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and associated infrastructure in demanding environmental conditions. The Senior Materials Scientist will lead research, testing, and analysis related to material degradation, performance optimization, and failure analysis. The **Upington** region, known for its high solar irradiance, presents unique challenges and opportunities for materials science in renewable energy. We are looking for an expert with a deep understanding of polymer science, photovoltaics, corrosion, and environmental impact on materials. This hands-on role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to translate research findings into practical engineering solutions for large-scale solar installations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead material selection, characterization, and testing for solar farm components, including PV modules, mounting structures, and electrical systems.
• Investigate material degradation mechanisms (e.g., UV degradation, corrosion, thermal cycling) affecting solar energy systems in arid environments.
• Develop and implement protocols for accelerated aging and environmental stress testing of materials.
• Conduct failure analysis on components and systems to identify root causes of defects or performance issues.
• Research and recommend advanced materials and coatings to improve solar module efficiency and lifespan.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to provide material science expertise for site selection, installation, and maintenance strategies.
• Manage laboratory testing equipment and ensure data integrity and accuracy.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, research findings, and recommendations for project stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in materials science and renewable energy technologies.
• Contribute to the development of material standards and best practices for the solar industry.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in materials science, with a specific focus on polymers, photovoltaics, or outdoor material performance.
• Proven experience in material characterization techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, microscopy, mechanical testing).
• Demonstrated ability in failure analysis and degradation studies of engineering materials.
• Strong understanding of solar PV module construction and performance factors.
• Experience with environmental testing standards (e.g., IEC 61215, IEC 61701) is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong technical writing and communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a project-driven environment.
• Willingness to work on-site in **Upington, Northern Cape**, and potentially travel to other project locations.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including an attractive annual salary and performance-based incentives. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided. This role offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth and impact within the rapidly expanding renewable energy sector. You will be contributing to a landmark solar project in **Upington, Northern Cape**, at the forefront of sustainable energy development. The company fosters a collaborative research environment and supports the continuous learning and development of its scientific staff.