Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist - Novel Compound Synthesis

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist for its Mahikeng, North West R&D team. You will design and execute complex multi-step syntheses of novel organic compounds for diverse applications, leading projects and optimizing conditions to scale routes for potential manufacturing.

The ideal candidate has a Ph.D. in organic chemistry with 6+ years in synthetic chemistry, strong problem-solving, and proven ability to work both independently and in a team within an industrial setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or closely related field is required.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in R&D or industrial settings.
• Proven expertise in a wide range of organic reactions and synthetic methodologies.
• Strong purification and characterization skills for organic compounds.
• Ability to design and execute challenging synthetic projects independently.
• Familiarity with SciFinder and Reaxys; proficient with analytical instrumentation.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail; strong communication abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a North West team.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex multi-step organic synthesis pathways to create novel molecules.
• Optimize reaction parameters to maximize yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Develop scalable synthetic routes for pilot plant and manufacturing stages.
• Purify synthesized compounds using chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation.
• Characterize compounds using NMR, MS, IR, and HPLC; maintain thorough records.
• Conduct literature and patent reviews to guide strategies and identify new avenues.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and document progress for the Mahikeng R&D team.

Skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

Team collaboration

Strong communication

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Tools

NMR

Mass Spectrometry

IR Spectroscopy

HPLC

SciFinder

Reaxys

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing specialty chemical company, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Synthetic Organic Chemist to join their innovative Research & Development team. This role, based in **Mahikeng, North West**, will be responsible for the design and execution of complex multi-step syntheses of novel organic compounds for diverse applications, including advanced materials and fine chemicals. You will lead challenging synthesis projects, optimize reaction conditions, and develop scalable synthetic routes. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern organic synthesis techniques, a strong track record of successful synthesis, and the ability to troubleshoot complex chemical challenges. Join a dedicated team focused on pushing the boundaries of chemical innovation in **Mahikeng**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex multi-step organic synthesis pathways to create novel molecules.
• Optimize reaction parameters (temperature, pressure, catalysts, solvents) to maximize yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Develop scalable synthetic routes suitable for pilot plant and potential manufacturing stages.
• Purify synthesized compounds using various techniques such as chromatography (column, flash), recrystallization, and distillation.
• Characterize synthesized compounds using analytical techniques including NMR, Mass Spectrometry, IR Spectroscopy, and HPLC.
• Conduct thorough literature searches and patent reviews to inform synthetic strategies and identify new research avenues.
• Troubleshoot synthetic challenges and unexpected results, proposing and implementing effective solutions.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare comprehensive reports on synthesis progress and findings for the **Mahikeng** R&D team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably in an industrial or R&D setting.
• Proven expertise in a wide range of organic reactions and synthetic methodologies.
• Strong practical skills in purification and characterization of organic compounds.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute challenging synthetic projects independently.
• Familiarity with literature databases (e.g., SciFinder, Reaxys) and analytical instrumentation.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team environment in **North West**.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, annual performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement savings plans, and generous paid time off. We are committed to employee development through ongoing training and opportunities to attend scientific conferences. This role in **Mahikeng** offers a stable and rewarding career focused on cutting-edge **organic synthesis** and **chemical innovation**. Join our dedicated R&D team and contribute to the development of novel chemical solutions.