Senior Research & Development Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

R&D budget and resources

Opportunity for patents/publications

Strong career growth potential

Dynamic Gauteng work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Randburg, Gauteng, invites applications for a Senior Research & Development Chemical Engineer to lead the development of novel chemical processes from laboratory scale through pilot plant validation.

You will drive innovation, optimize reaction pathways, and ensure scalability and economic viability of new technologies while mentoring junior researchers and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in chemical research and development.
• Proven expertise in process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Strong understanding of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation technologies.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, COMSOL) is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor junior researchers.
• Located in or willing to relocate to the Randburg area.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects focused on developing new chemical processes and product formulations.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials to validate process concepts.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and provide clear technical recommendations.
• Develop scale-up strategies and troubleshoot challenges from lab to production scales.
• Utilize process simulation and modeling tools to optimize reaction conditions and improve process efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marketing, manufacturing, and quality control.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and patent disclosures.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements in chemical engineering.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Optimization

Reaction engineering

Thermodynamics

Separation technologies

Analytical instrumentation

Lab techniques

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

COMSOL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an innovative leader in the development of advanced materials and specialty chemicals, is seeking a Senior Research & Development Chemical Engineer for their state-of-the-art facility in Randburg , Gauteng. This role involves spearheading the research and development of novel chemical processes and products, from laboratory scale through to pilot plant validation. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, optimizing reaction pathways, and ensuring the scalability and economic viability of new chemical technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background in chemical engineering, extensive R&D experience, and a passion for scientific discovery and commercialization. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in the chemical industry within Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects focused on the development of new chemical processes and product formulations.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials to validate process concepts.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and provide clear technical recommendations.
• Develop scale-up strategies and troubleshoot challenges associated with transitioning processes from lab to pilot and production scales.
• Utilize process simulation and modeling tools to optimize reaction conditions and improve process efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, manufacturing, and quality control.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and patent disclosures.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements in chemical engineering.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in chemical research and development.
• Proven expertise in process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Strong understanding of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation technologies.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL) is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor junior researchers.
• Located in or willing to relocate to the Randburg area.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous research and development budget and resources.
• Opportunities for patenting and publication.
• Significant career growth potential within a leading R&D organization.
• A dynamic and stimulating work environment in Gauteng , fostering innovation.