Chemist

About the job

About MBFi

Microbial Biological Fertilizers International (MBFi) is a 20-year-old, family-owned global agricultural inputs company specializing in green chemistry, biostimulants, inoculants, and adjuvants. We focus on developing biological and specialty crop technologies that deliver effective and sustainable solutions for growers worldwide.

Our technologies are developed in-house through four microbiology laboratories, a chemistry laboratory, and controlled growing chambers, giving us a deep understanding of product design, formulation, and field application. All products are manufactured in our state-of-the-art facilities to maintain strict quality control and ensure maximum field performance and return on investment for producers.

We are looking for a passionate Chemist  to join our Specialty Fertilizers team and contribute to the continued development of innovative agricultural technologies. The successful candidate will work closely with the team on research, formulation development, product improvement, and the evaluation of new technologies for MBFi and its future customers.

We are seeking someone who is committed to excellence, scientifically curious, detail-oriented, and excited to apply their chemistry expertise to real-world challenges in agriculture. If you are driven, innovative, and ready to grow alongside our team, we would love to hear from you.

Description

• Assist the team with research and development activities across MBFi's specialty agricultural product portfolio.
• Assist with the formulation, development, testing, and optimisation of products.
• Conduct sample testing, problem-solving investigations, literature reviews, and research into new technologies and product concepts.
• Support the development and retention of quality within MBFi's liquid amino acid chelated nutrient range and specialised agricultural products.
• Contribute to research and development across:
• Chelated liquid fertilisers
• Specialised biostimulants
• Adjuvants
• Fungicides
• Insecticides
• Plant growth regulators (PGRs)
• Systemic acquired resistance (SAR) products
• New and emerging agricultural technologies
• Assist with laboratory development and practical evaluation of new formulations and product concepts.
• Assist with greenhouse and field trials to evaluate product performance and efficacy.
• Support the evaluation and optimisation of products for practical agricultural applications.
• Assist with presentations, technical content, and articles relating to MBFi products and technologies.
• Prepare, write, review, and maintain accurate research and technical reports.
• Conduct literature reviews and remain up to date with relevant scientific and research developments.
• Assist with identifying new ideas, technologies, and solutions for improved product performance and practical use in agriculture.
• Maintain required laboratory, quality, and research standards in accordance with applicable ISO, CIPAC, and other relevant procedures and standards.
• Assist with continuous improvement of laboratory processes, methods, formulations, and product development activities.
• Work closely with the Chemistry and cross-functional teams to support MBFi's research and development objectives.

Minimum Requirements

• MSc Chemistry or another closely related qualification.
• Good knowledge of analytical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and formulation chemistry.
• Strong scientific research and problem-solving abilities.
• Sound verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong report-writing and analytical skills.
• Good organisational and planning skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• A practical and innovative approach to research and product development.

Advantageous:

• Knowledge of material properties and characterisation.
• Experience with ATR-FTIR.
• Experience in formulation development.
• Experience with agricultural products, fertilisers, biostimulants, or related technologies.
• Experience with laboratory, greenhouse, or field evaluations.
• Knowledge of ISO, CIPAC, or other relevant laboratory and quality standards.

Why Join MBFi?

At MBFi, you will join a growing international company committed to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in agriculture. You will have the opportunity to work at the intersection of chemistry, product development, and agricultural technology, contributing to solutions designed to address real-world challenges faced by growers.

We value teamwork, accountability, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement while providing opportunities for growth within a dynamic and innovative industry.

To apply, please submit your CV via LinkedIn or email your application to carike@mbfi.co.za