Specialist Chemical Engineer - Polymerization

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Specialist Chemical Engineer in Centurion, Gauteng, with deep polymerization expertise. You will drive R&D on novel polymerization processes, optimize reactor designs, and provide global technical support across projects.

Requires a PhD in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science and 8+ years in polymerization R&D with scale-up experience. Remote-first environment with strong collaboration worldwide.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced materials, is seeking an exceptional Specialist Chemical Engineer with deep expertise in polymerization processes. This role is critical for driving innovation and technical excellence in the development and production of high-performance polymers. The position is based in Centurion, Gauteng , but the nature of the work allows for significant remote engagement, fostering a flexible work environment. You will be responsible for pioneering new polymerization technologies, optimizing existing reactor designs, and providing expert technical support across multiple projects. This is an unparalleled opportunity to work at the cutting edge of polymer science and contribute to the development of next- generation materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel polymerization processes and catalysts.
• Optimize existing polymerization reactors (e.g., batch, continuous stirred-tank, plug flow) for improved yield, quality, and efficiency.
• Conduct detailed kinetic modeling and simulation of polymerization reactions.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies for polymerization units.
• Provide expert technical consultation on polymerization challenges to manufacturing sites globally.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and recommend improvements.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists, process engineers, and manufacturing personnel.
• Author technical reports, patents, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Ensure process designs comply with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Stay current with scientific literature and industry trends in polymerization science and technology.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related discipline with a strong focus on polymerization.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in polymerization process research, development, and scale-up.
• Proven expertise in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, anionic, cationic, condensation).
• Proficiency with process simulation software and kinetic modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of polymer reaction engineering, rheology, and material characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead complex R&D projects.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, including presentation skills.
• Experience with process safety assessments related to polymerization reactions is a plus.
• The ability to work effectively in a remote-first collaborative environment based out of Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary and benefits package, including a generous performance bonus, comprehensive health insurance, and retirement savings plans. This role provides significant autonomy and the opportunity to shape the future of polymer technology. The remote flexibility associated with this position, supporting our Centurion, Gauteng operations, allows for an excellent work-life balance. Embrace a career where innovation and scientific rigor are paramount.