Material Scientist/Engineer

Material scientists/engineers develop and design the properties of materials such as ceramics, polymers, rubbers and glass and also study the relationship between these materials.

Job Characteristics

• Conducting research and advising on the design and development of new or improved methods to deal with material-engineering aspects.



• Studying and advising on technological aspects of particular materials or processes.



• Determining the most suitable methods of extracting the ores, turning the raw materials into metals and alloys and then into a myriad of products, ranging from transport, computer and construction equipment as well as firm amendments.



• Investigating properties of metals and alloys, developing new alloys and advising on the supervision of technical aspects of metal and alloy manufacture and processing.



• Maintaining technical liaison and consultancy with other relevant specialists, in particular with geologists, geophysicists and mining engineers.

Requirements

Secondary Education
Possession of a HIGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with matriculation exemption is required for admission to South African universities. A HIGCSE or outstanding IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, is needed to be admitted to the Vaal Triangle Technikon.

Compulsory subjects
Mathematics and Physical Science (South Africa)

Tertiary Education
A B. Eng. or B. Sc. degree with Material Science, Physics or Chemistry as major subjects, can be followed at universities in South Africa.

The Vaal Triangle Technikon offers diploma studies up to the level of technologist.
No study possibilities exist currently in Namibia.

Personality
The prospective candidate should be practically oriented and able to analyse as well as conceptualize abstract ideas.

Work Opportunities
Material scientists/engineers can enter speciality fields like holding and casting and after a few years of practical experience could establish their own businesses.
 

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