Mpumalanga: Research and Development Scientist – explosives lab

Requirements: BSc Honours Chemistry / BEng Honours Chemical Engineering or similar 7 years research and development experience in an explosive / manufacturing laboratory environment 5 years quality testing and reporting experience. Responsibilities: Implement the unit operations plan by understanding key activities, projects, and performance indicators; communicating objectives to relevant stakeholders; and monitoring execution on a daily basis. Manage unit performance by continuously monitoring results, detecting anomalies, and executing corrective actions on a monthly basis or as operational needs arise Manage the implementation of unit business processes by monitoring compliance, identifying process anomalies, and executing corrective actions as required. Manage the implementation of unit business processes by monitoring compliance, identifying process anomalies, and executing corrective actions as required. Provide technical laboratory support by overseeing the completion of testing, quality management, formulation activities, and technical documentation, ensuring timely reporting and participation in projects to meet departmental goals. Deliver technical sales support by developing and applying analytical procedures and test methods, evaluating alternative and existing raw materials and intermediates, establishing specifications and data sheets, and submitting recommendations as needed. Attend technical forums and review relevant research articles, extract key insights, and integrate findings into laboratory practices to support continuous improvement. Execute research and development projects aimed at improving efficiency, performance, and product offerings through structured processes and outcome-based implementation. Provide technical support to clients by investigating queries, conducting necessary testing and analysis, determining root causes, and delivering accurate, timely feedback and resolutions. Fulfil product stewardship responsibilities by creating and maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), updating compliance certificates, managing certification and testing documentation, completing technical reports, and ensuring database accuracy at all times. Implement and manage expenditure within budget by understanding cost components, approving spend in alignment with financial policies, and conducting monthly reviews. Ensure effective implementation of SHE by delivering comprehensive training, completing training programs, and addressing any identified gaps or non-compliance. Monitor SHE performance by establishing clear standards, ensuring timely completion of monitoring activities, and resolving issues within defined deadlines. Build and maintain productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders by facilitating regular communication, exchanging feedback, and supporting collaboration. Manage service provider performance by tracking service level agreements, monitoring delivery against standards, identifying issues, and applying corrective actions when necessary. Manage workforce resourcing by aligning staffing levels with work demands and assigning resources to meet operational goals. Supervise staff performance by setting clear expectations, tracking work output, providing feedback, and addressing performance issues through corrective actions. Contribute to the sustainability strategy of the department and ensure that the operations are aligned with sustainability principles, minimising environmental impact.