Senior Research & Development Chemical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Health coverage

Retirement planning

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research & Development Chemical Engineer to join their fully remote R&D division. You will lead the conceptualization, development, and scaling of novel chemical processes and products, collaborating with a global team of scientists and engineers from a home-based setup.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering with 8+ years in process development, catalysis, and scale-up, and excels in data analysis, safety, and innovation in remote

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering with strong R&D focus.
• 8+ years in chemical process research and development.
• Experience in laboratory experimentation, process design, and scale-up.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus, ChemCad, and data analysis tools.
• Strong analytical and communication skills; able to work remotely

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of new chemical processes from bench-scale to pilot plant.
• Design experiments to optimize reaction conditions and yields.
• Analyze data using statistical methods and modeling.
• Develop scalable, safe, and economically viable processes.
• Collaborate with product development, manufacturing, and marketing teams.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and patent disclosures.
• Stay current with literature and emerging chemical engineering trends.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.
• Manage remote R&D project timelines and budgets.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Reaction engineering

Catalysis

Separation processes

Aspen Plus

ChemCad

Data analysis

Remote collaboration

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

M.S. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCad

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly innovative and experienced Senior Research & Development Chemical Engineer to join their fully remote, cutting-edge R&D division. This pivotal role will focus on conceptualizing, developing, and scaling up novel chemical processes and products. You will lead research initiatives, conduct experimental work, analyze results, and translate laboratory findings into viable industrial applications. The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific foundation, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a proven track record in process development and innovation. As a fully remote position, you will collaborate closely with a global team of scientists and engineers, utilizing advanced digital tools to drive project success. This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to pioneering advancements in chemical technology from the comfort of your home.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new chemical processes and technologies, from bench-scale experimentation to pilot plant trials.
• Design and execute experiments to optimize reaction conditions, yields, and product purity.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, employing statistical methods and modeling techniques.
• Develop and scale-up processes, ensuring technical feasibility, safety, and economic viability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, manufacturing, and marketing, to align R&D efforts with business objectives.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research proposals, and patent disclosures.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature, technological advancements, and emerging trends in chemical engineering and related fields.
• Mentor junior R&D engineers and provide technical leadership.
• Manage R&D project timelines and budgets effectively in a remote setting.
• Ensure compliance with all safety and environmental regulations during research activities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field with a strong R&D focus.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical process research and development, preferably within specialty chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or advanced materials.
• Proven experience in laboratory experimentation, process design, and scale-up.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, catalysis, separation processes, or other relevant chemical engineering disciplines.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCad) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of scientific principles and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, adept at collaborating with remote teams.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage projects, and drive innovation.
• Must be eligible to work remotely within South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-driven bonuses, and an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning, and generous paid time off.
• As a fully remote position, you will benefit from outstanding flexibility and work-life balance.
• Our client invests in employee growth by providing access to cutting-edge research tools, extensive professional development resources, and opportunities to attend international conferences.
• Join a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment where your contributions to innovation are recognized and rewarded.
• Be part of a forward-thinking company pushing the boundaries of chemical science.