Afrikelp Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa Research And Development Chemist Afrikelp Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. POSITION: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CHEMISTLOCATION: MATROOSFONTEIN, WESTERN CAPEREPORTING TO: NPD & QC MANAGERDIRECT REPORTS: + 2 ROLE DESCRIPTIONTo develop and optimise agricultural input formulations, ensuring stability, efficacy, and compatibility of products designed to support plant performance. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemistry, formulation science, and agricultural product development. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES• Develop, optimise, and scale up formulations for agricultural inputs, including but not limited to biostimulant-based solutions.• Assess the physical and chemical stability of formulations under various environmental conditions.• Conduct compatibility studies with other agricultural products, including fertilizers and crop protection solutions.• Evaluate raw materials and active ingredients to enhance product performance and shelf life.• Develop testing protocols and quality control methods for formulations.• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across the business to ensure product feasibility and compliance.• Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory guidelines related to agricultural input products.• Assist in scaling formulations from laboratory to pilot and full-scale production.• Document all research findings, formulation processes, and stability data in compliance with industry standards.• Scientific report writing.• Assist with extraction and analysis.• Follow, update and validate SOPs and work instructions on a continuous basis.• Assist quality control department with adhoc responsibilities as and when required.• Monitor and operate lab equipment in accordance with operational instructions and good lab practices.• Regular review of the production schedule for quality control purposes.• Ensure that all quality control processes are performed to highest quality.• Management of lab inventory and consumables.• Strictly following health and safety procedures and protocols.• Liaise with service provider on equipment malfunction problems and maintenance.• Ensure validity of results with reputable external service providers.• Undergo routine analysis of all products but at the same time investigating process improvements.• Maintenance of server files for ease of accessibility.• Ensure proper housekeeping in the Lab. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:• Honours Degree in Chemistry, Formulation Science, Agricultural Science, or a related field is essential.• Master's, or Ph. D. in a related field will be advantageous.• Must have good working knowledge of GC-MS and/or LC-MS is essential.• Extensive experience with analytical techniques is essential.• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for agricultural formulations is essential.• Problem-solving mindset with excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills is essential.• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research-driven environment is essential.• Strong communication and technical writing skills is essential.• Experience with natural extracts, seaweed-derived components, or microbial-based formulations.• Knowledge of agricultural industry trends and challenges.• Experience with scale-up processes and best practices.• A strong sense of ownership and the ability to take initiative and make decisions with confidence.• A high level of accountability, with a track record of meeting goals and delivering results.• A commitment to excellence, consistently striving to improve performance and contribute to the success of the team and company. Please apply by sending a copy of your CV via the Linked In portal. Closing date for applications: 8 May 2025 Disclaimer: Strictly fair and non-discriminatory selection procedures will be followed. We use Employment Equity (EE) and Affirmative Action (AA) measures in an endeavour to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups. Where possible, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act and in line with Afrikelp’s Employment Equity plans. Afrikelp reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time. Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not hear from us within two (2) weeks following the closing date for applications, kindly consider their application unsuccessful. Seniority level Seniority level Entry level Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology Industries Farming Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Afrikelp by 2x Get notified about new Research And Development Chemist jobs in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. City of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa 1 day ago Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa 6 months ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
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