Senior Research Chemical Engineer — Sustainable Processes Lead

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Paid time off

Conference budget

Publish opportunities

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Chemical Engineer in the Western Cape region to advance sustainable chemical process development. You will lead cutting-edge projects, design advanced experiments, and translate findings into viable process concepts.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 7+ years of post-doctoral experience, strong publication record, and expertise in catalysis, reaction engineering, and separations. Based in Paarl, relocation assistance may be provided.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or closely related field with a strong publication record.
• Minimum 7 years of post-doctoral research experience focusing on process development and innovation.
• Expertise in catalysis, reaction engineering, separations, or biochemical engineering.
• Proven ability to lead research projects from inception to completion.
• Strong experimental design, data analysis, and modeling skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with technical writing and presenting experience.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research-intensive environment.
• Experience with intellectual property processes and patent filing is desirable.
• Experience in green chemistry or sustainable process development is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on sustainable chemical processes.
• Design and conduct complex experiments in lab and pilot-scale settings.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and develop robust theoretical models.
• Identify and evaluate new technologies for process innovation.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations and external partners.
• Prepare detailed research reports, presentations, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to knowledge sharing.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and environmental standards.
• Stay current with literature and industry trends in sustainable chemistry.
• Contribute to strategic direction of the R&D department.

Skills

Catalysis

Reaction engineering

Separations

Biochemical engineering

Project leadership

Data analysis

Modeling

Technical writing

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Chemical Engineer in the Western Cape region to advance sustainable chemical process development. You will lead cutting-edge projects, design advanced experiments, and translate findings into viable process concepts.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 7+ years of post-doctoral experience, strong publication record, and expertise in catalysis, reaction engineering, and separations. Based in Paarl, relocation assistance may be provided.