Senior Research Chemical Engineer — Cape Town Onsite

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Annual bonus

Medical and dental insurance

Professional development funding

Onsite labs and facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Chemical Engineer to spearhead innovative projects at a state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town. The role focuses on novel materials and eco-friendly chemical processes, guiding a team of scientists and engineers through experimental design and data analysis.

The candidate should possess a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field, with 8+ years of R&D leadership, and a proven track record in publications or patents.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. preferred; Master's with extensive research experience also considered.
• 8+ years of progressive chemical R&D experience, with leadership roles.
• Expertise in advanced chemical research areas (catalysis, materials science, sustainable chemistry).
• Proven ability to design, execute experiments and analyze large datasets.
• Strong publication and/or patent record; excellent communication and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects on product development and process innovation.
• Develop and execute experimental plans for novel reactions, materials, and processes.
• Supervise and mentor junior engineers and researchers.
• Analyze data, interpret results and guide research directions.
• Prepare and present findings to internal stakeholders and at conferences.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (marketing, manufacturing, IP) to advance research.
• Ensure safety compliance and laboratory best practices.
• Identify and evaluate new technologies relevant to research objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Experimental design

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree with extensive research experience

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Chemical Engineer to spearhead innovative projects at a state-of-the-art facility in Cape Town. The role focuses on novel materials and eco-friendly chemical processes, guiding a team of scientists and engineers through experimental design and data analysis.

The candidate should possess a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field, with 8+ years of R&D leadership, and a proven track record in publications or patents.