Development Chemist
First seen by Alion on Nov 9, 2026.
An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced Development Chemist to join a well-established national manufacturer operating within the paints, coatings and industrial chemicals sector.
This position offers the opportunity to contribute to the development, formulation and continuous improvement of specialist coating products, working within a technical environment focused on innovation, product performance and quality.
Duties & Responsibilities
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Formulate, develop, and improve new and existing coating products.
- Conduct raw material evaluations and identify cost-effective alternatives without compromising product quality.
- Perform paint manufacturing, panel preparation, laboratory testing and product performance evaluations.
- Conduct competitor product evaluations and provide technical insights to support marketing initiatives.
- Prepare and maintain Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and testing documentation.
- Ensure compliance with applicable ISO quality, environmental and occupational health and safety standards.
- Calibrate, verify and maintain laboratory testing equipment.
- Provide technical support with customer complaints and participate in product field trials.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and assist with training and mentoring laboratory personnel.
Desired Experience & Qualification
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications (one of the following):
- BSc Degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline; OR
- SAPMA Modules 1–5, together with a minimum of 10 years' experience in a coatings laboratory environment.
Experience and Competencies:
- 3–5 years' hands-on R&D experience within the paint and coatings industry.
- Knowledge of raw material evaluation and cost optimisation.
- Understanding of ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and occupational health and safety systems.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and technical report-writing abilities.
- Excellent computer literacy and communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively within a technical team environment
Package & Remuneration
Salary range: R26 000 – R32 000 basic
- Medical Aid: 50/50 company contribution.
- Provident Fund: Offered
- Annual Bonus: Subject to company performance policy.
Interested?
If you have the relevant qualifications and experience and are looking to take the next step in your technical career, we would like to hear from you.
Please submit your updated CV, academic transcripts and relevant professional certificates to Personnel Network for consideration.