Process Engineer - Speciality Chemicals

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 52,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Engineer for our client, a niche chemicals manufacturer, located in Kimberley. You will troubleshoot, debottleneck, and drive continuous improvement across chemical production, aligning with safety and quality standards.

The role combines hands-on operational work on site with data analysis and reporting tasks that support optimization initiatives and scale-up of new products.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• 3–6 years of experience in a process engineering role within chemical manufacturing.
• Proven experience in process troubleshooting, optimization and continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of chemical unit operations and process control.
• Familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze production processes to identify efficiency improvements and cost reductions.
• Troubleshoot process issues, diagnose root causes, and implement solutions.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects (Lean / Six Sigma).
• Develop and optimize process operating parameters for quality and yield.
• Assist in design and implementation of process modifications and small capital projects.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations for management.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and quality control teams.
• Develop and maintain process documentation (P&IDs and SOPs).
• Support scale-up of new products or processes from pilot to production.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Process optimization

Continuous improvement

Data analysis

Process simulation

PSM knowledge

Communication

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a niche manufacturer of high-performance speciality chemicals, is seeking a skilled Process Engineer to join their expanding operations in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This role is crucial for supporting and optimizing the production processes of diverse chemical products. The Process Engineer will be involved in everything from process troubleshooting and debottlenecking to implementing continuous improvement initiatives and ensuring adherence to stringent quality and safety standards. This hybrid position requires regular on-site presence to engage directly with operations, complemented by remote capabilities for data analysis and reporting. We are looking for a proactive individual passionate about chemical engineering and dedicated to driving operational excellence within the Kimberley, Northern Cape facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze production processes to identify areas for efficiency improvement and cost reduction.
• Troubleshoot process issues, diagnose root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects, such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma initiatives.
• Develop and optimize process operating parameters to ensure consistent product quality and yield.
• Assist in the design and implementation of process modifications and small capital projects.
• Ensure all processes comply with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, performance analyses, and recommendations for management.
• Collaborate with the operations, maintenance, and quality control teams.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs and operating procedures.
• Support the scale-up of new products or processes from pilot to commercial production.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 3-6 years of experience in a process engineering role within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in process troubleshooting, optimization, and continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of chemical unit operations and process control.
• Familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles is a plus.
• Proficiency in data analysis and process simulation software is desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid role, with regular on-site presence in Kimberley, Northern Cape.
• Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement contributions, and opportunities for professional development.
• This hybrid role provides a balanced approach to work, allowing for both focused analysis and essential hands-on involvement at the Kimberley, Northern Cape site.
• You will be part of a dedicated team committed to producing high-quality speciality chemicals and fostering a safe working environment.
• We invest in our employees' growth through training and challenging project opportunities.
• Join a company that values innovation and operational excellence.