Scientist/Engineer: Fuel Cell Catalyst R&D
Listing reference: minte_000435
Listing status: Online
Apply by: 24 July 2026
Position summary
Industry: Scientific, Research & Development
Job category: Chemical Engineering
Location: Randburg
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: Market Related
EE position: No
Introduction
The incumbent will form part of a team developing PGM electrocatalysts for PEM fuel cell and electrolyser applications. Experience in heterogeneous catalysis, fuel cell &/or electrolyser electrocatalyst development will be a strong requirement. Knowledge of electrochemistry, electrochemical processes technology, precious metals heterogeneous catalysis, or electrocatalyst preparation will be an advantage.
Job description
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
- Develop electrocatalyst for PEM electrolyser &/or fuel cell applications.
- Conduct electrochemical & physicochemical analyses of electrocatalysts.
- Contribute to PEM electrocatalyst research within team.
- Collaborate closely with the Fuel Cell manufacturing team to undertake pilot production of certain MEA using HySA catalysts.
- Develop electrocatalysts with a view towards improving key performance and durability metrics.
- Evaluate MEAs within single cells and stacks via a number of industry standard protocols.
- Regularly prepare intellectual property declarations for submission to NIPMO.
- Strong technical report writing abilities.
- Ensure that projects are executed on time and within budget.
- Ensure that SHEQ procedures are strictly adhered to and that project work is executed with maximum overall technical efficiency.
- Actively participate in the training, guidance and motivation of junior staff. Participate in team debates and technical decisions.
- Produce professional reports, papers and presentations at local and international conferences.
- Identify opportunities for technology development and commercialisation.
- Keep up-to-date at a professional level with technology and business developments that are relevant to the division’s interests.
- Demonstrate through behaviour the values and vision of Mintek.
Minimum requirements
JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
- Two (2) years’ experience in PEMFC &/PEMWE electrocatalyst, or 3 years’ experience in heterogeneous catalysis environment, involved in PGM-based electrocatalysts preparation, characterization, & application.
- Basic understanding and involvement in scale-up of heterogeneous catalysts.
- Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.
- Relevant publications in peer reviewed journals.
- Ability to form collaborations with other institutions (University, science councils etc).
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum: MSc Chemistry or Chemical engineering.
- Ideally: PhD Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.
BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES:
- Be able to work in a team.
- Excellent communication, presentation and organisational skills.
- Attention to detail, ability to follow up and take initiative.