Research Manager - Materials Science/Metallurgy/Mechanical/Industrial (not chemical)

Recruiter:

MECS Africa

Job Ref:

JHB012326/LB

Date posted:

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Location:

Johannesburg, South Africa

SUMMARY:
Lead research groups in R&D and commercialization of products within materials manufacturing/materials science
Drive business development and strategic direction of the research group
Responsible for delivery of strategic objectives
Mentor and develop Researchers across sub-sectors
Drive the transfer of technology and solutions to industry or user environments
Package technologies for commercialization through financial modelling, market assessment and business development
Drive the financial sustainability of the research division and partake in funding initiatives
Integrate sector knowledge in multidimensional research and development programs through deep understanding of industry needs and innovation
Research outputs include:
Products and prototypes delivered
New patents granted
New licences

POSITION INFO:
Requirements:

A PhD in materials sciences or engineering (Metallurgical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering NOT chemical Eng).
5+ years of post-PhD experience in Research, Development & Innovation or Manufacturing.
8+ years in senior-level strategic leadership or business management within the Research, Development and Innovation sector.
Proven leadership in Research and Development projects.
A strong track record in:
- Strategic industry engagement and insight into competitiveness drivers (product/manufacturing).
- Technological insight and its impact on industry competitiveness.
- Capacity building, including human capital development, research rigor, and infrastructure development.

Similar jobs you might be interested in:

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST / PRODUCT RESEARCHER (JHB)
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
We are seeking an experienced research and development Specialist to lead the sourcing, testing, and enhancement of new products. This role focuses on conducting research, analyzing data, prototyping, and ensuring innovative solutions align with technical, regulatory, and business requirements.
8 days ago

Research Manager - Materials Science/Metallurgy/Mechanical/Industrial (not chemical)
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Lead research groups in R&D and commercialization of products within materials manufacturing/materials scienceDrive business development and strategic direction of the research groupResponsible for delivery of strategic objectivesMentor and develop researchers across sub-sectorsDrive the transfer of technology and solutions to industry or user environmentsPackage technologies for commercializa...
22 days ago

Electrical Design Engineer
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Join us as we expand our specialist team at the intersection of electrical distribution, power quality, and automation. You’ll take ownership of high-impact design and support work, collaborate with leading Engineers, and directly shape solutions for our industrial and commercial clients. If you thrive in technical variety, enjoy working across design, support, and R&D, and want to help ...
16 days ago

Capex Manager - Bedfordview
Location: Johannesburg
Salary: R600 000 Annually
Role PurposeThe Capex Manager will be responsible for overseeing the execution of all capital expenditure (capex) projects from inception to completion. The role includes cost control, financial reporting, vendor management, and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in line with quality standards.Key ResponsibilitiesCapex Strategy & PlanningDrive innovation in project man...
Today

Plant Breeder
Location: Johannesburg
Salary: Market Related
A leading agricultural company focused on advancing crop production through innovative breeding techniques is seeking a Plant Breeder to be responsible for developing improved crop varieties through breeding experiments, data analysis, and field trials, while collaborating with teams and stakeholders.
Today

Actuarial Analyst â Short-Term Pricing
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Numbers Whisperer Needed – Short-Term Pricing Actuarial Analyst.
Today

Capex Manager
Location: Johannesburg
Salary: 000
As the Capex Manager you will be responsible to oversee the execution of all the capex projects from inception to completion. Additionally, you will be tasked to effectively control all costs and report on all capex financial transactions.
Today

Business Development Manager - Financial Services
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Today

Lead Engineer: Water & Sanitation
Location: Pretoria
Salary: 1200000 Annually
We’re Hiring: Lead Engineer – Water & SanitationPretoria, Gauteng Our client in the engineering industry is seeking a highly skilled Lead Engineer: Water & Sanitation to join their team. This is a leadership role where you will report directly to the Division Head: Water & Sanitation, driving project success, mentoring teams, and delivering innovative infrastructure so...
1 day ago

Solutions Architect
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Ready to architect the future of enterprise technology? We're partnering with a leading name in the automotive industry to find a Solutions Architect who’s not just technically sharp—but business-savvy, strategic, and vendor-savvy.You must have technical expertise in network infrastructure, security, and cloud technologies, combined with strong business acumen and the ability to work i...
2 days ago