Senior Product Development Chemist - Specialty Polymers

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid annual leave

R&D facilities access

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng seeks a Senior Product Development Chemist specializing in polymers to drive the creation of novel polymer-based products from concept to market launch.

The role requires deep knowledge of polymer chemistry, formulation science, and rigorous testing, with a track record of successful product development and commercialization. Hybrid work is offered with strong growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• 8+ years in product development, focused on specialty polymers.
• Strong understanding of polymer synthesis, structure–property relationships, and formulation.
• Experience developing and commercializing polymer-based products.
• Proficiency with polymer characterization techniques (GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA).
• Experience in application testing and performance evaluation of polymers.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of new specialty polymer formulations and products.
• Design experiments for synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation.
• Formulate and test polymer systems, optimizing adhesion, durability, viscosity, and cure.
• Conduct market analysis to guide new product initiatives.
• Collaborate with R&D, technical service, marketing, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare technical reports, patents, and launch documentation.
• Provide technical support to customers and sales teams.
• Stay updated on polymer industry trends and innovations.
• Manage lab resources, equipment, and budgets for projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Formulation science

Product development

Analytical testing

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Polymer Chemistry / Organic Chemistry / Materials Science

Tools

GPC

NMR

FTIR

DSC

TGA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished innovator in specialty chemicals, is looking for a Senior Product Development Chemist with a focus on Specialty Polymers to join their esteemed team in **Sandton, Gauteng**. This role is crucial for driving the creation of novel polymer-based products from concept to market launch. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of polymer chemistry, formulation science, and product application testing, coupled with a strong track record of successful product development. This position offers a dynamic and challenging environment within a company renowned for its commitment to cutting-edge research and commercial success in **Sandton, Gauteng**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new specialty polymer formulations and products for diverse market applications.
• Design and execute experimental programs for synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of polymers.
• Formulate and test polymer systems, optimizing properties such as adhesion, durability, viscosity, and cure characteristics.
• Conduct thorough market analysis and identify unmet needs to guide new product development initiatives.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, technical service, marketing, and manufacturing teams throughout the product lifecycle.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, patent applications, and product launch documentation.
• Provide technical support to customers and sales teams regarding product performance and application.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements, competitor activities, and market trends in the specialty polymer industry.
• Manage laboratory resources, equipment, and budgets effectively for product development projects.
• Ensure all product development activities comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in product development, specifically focused on specialty polymers.
• Deep understanding of polymer synthesis, structure-property relationships, and formulation science.
• Proven experience in developing and commercializing new polymer-based products.
• Proficiency with common polymer characterization techniques (e.g., GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA).
• Experience in application testing and performance evaluation of polymer materials.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with adhesives, coatings, or composites is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-driven bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Robust retirement savings plan with excellent company contributions.
• Generous paid annual leave and holiday entitlements.
• Opportunities for professional growth, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Access to state-of-the art R&D facilities.
• Hybrid work environment offering a balance between office collaboration and remote flexibility.