MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• A master's degree (MSc or MEng) in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry (NQF level 9).
• A minimum of three (3) years' experience in external research, contract research, or industrial projects - coordination, execution and reporting of projects.
• A minimum of three (3) years' experience in an advanced analytical laboratory environment - experimental work, data interpretation, troubleshooting, and analytical support.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in the preparation of technical reports, client interaction, and project communication - technical reporting, stakeholder engagement, and client interaction.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in the development, optimisation, and implementation of analytical or experimental methods - method development and experimental problem solving.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ research, analytical or industrial experience in coal, carbon materials, biomass, minerals, metallurgical processes, or related industrial sectors.

JOB DESCRIPTION

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Project Coordination and Delivery

• Coordinate, execute, and contribute to externally funded research, contract research, and industrial collaboration projects, including planning, scheduling, resource allocation, execution, and delivery of project outcomes.

Technical and Analytical Support

• Perform and support specialised analytical and experimental work, method development, troubleshooting, data interpretation, and technical problem-solving associated with project activities.

Client and Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with clients, researchers, suppliers, and project partners to support project execution, communication, and stakeholder relationships.

Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare quotations, technical reports, project updates, and project-related documentation.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Project coordination and delivery of externally funded research, contract research, and industrial collaboration projects.
• Technical report writing, data interpretation, and presentation of project outcomes.
• Experience with advanced analytical instrumentation and associated troubleshooting.
• Method development, experimental planning, and technical problem-solving capability.
• Stakeholder engagement, including interaction with clients, researchers, suppliers, and project partners.
• Knowledge of laboratory operations, and hazardous chemical management.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects, priorities, and deliverables simultaneously.
• Financial and administrative understanding related to quotations, project budgeting, invoicing, and project reporting.
• Ability to identify, develop, and support new industrial collaboration opportunities.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Professional, service-oriented, and collaborative approach.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.
• Adaptability and problem-solving ability within a dynamic project environment.

REMUNERATION:

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Prof. Hein Neomagus on 018 299 1991

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mrs. Fadilha Minty on 018 299 4993

CLOSING DATE: 28 July 2026

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: 1 September 2026

Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

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