Chemical Engineer - Polymer Process Optimization

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 31,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chemical Engineer to optimize polymer processes at our Upington, Northern Cape, ZA facility. You will analyze existing production steps, identify bottlenecks, and drive improvements to yield, quality, and cost efficiency.

You will collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance to implement changes, monitor KPIs, and ensure safety standards while mentoring junior staff. This role supports continuous improvement in a growing polymer manufacturing operation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Engineering.
• 3-6 years of experience in chemical process engineering with a focus on polymer manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Understanding of process control systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Hands-on ability to work in a manufacturing plant environment.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and safety protocols.
• Proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize polymer manufacturing processes to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality.
• Identify and address process bottlenecks and operational issues through data analysis and root cause investigation.
• Develop and implement process improvements, including modifications to operating parameters and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D to facilitate the scale-up and commercialization of new polymer products.
• Monitor process performance using KPIs and provide regular reports.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations within the production environment.
• Work with maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and troubleshoot process-related equipment failures.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and process control strategies.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and operators on process best practices.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through process optimization.

Skills

Analytical skills

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Data analysis

Process control

Hands-on experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Engineering

Tools

Process simulation tools

Instrumentation knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer to focus on polymer process optimization at their facility in **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA**. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of their polymer manufacturing operations. You will be involved in analyzing existing processes, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing improvements through data-driven approaches and engineering best practices. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of polymer science, reaction kinetics, and process control within a manufacturing environment. You will work closely with production teams, R&D, and maintenance to troubleshoot issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on operational performance in a key industrial sector. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring our client maintains a competitive edge through optimized production processes. You will play a key role in ensuring the highest standards of polymer production.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize polymer manufacturing processes to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality.
• Identify and address process bottlenecks and operational issues through data analysis and root cause investigation.
• Develop and implement process improvements, including modifications to operating parameters and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D to facilitate the scale-up and commercialization of new polymer products.
• Monitor process performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide regular reports.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations within the production environment.
• Work with maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and troubleshoot process-related equipment failures.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and process control strategies.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and operators on process best practices.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through process optimization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Engineering.
• 3-6 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a focus on polymer manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Understanding of process control systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work hands-on in a manufacturing plant environment.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and safety protocols.
• Proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development.
• The position is based in **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA**, offering a chance to work in a growing industrial hub.
• Our client is committed to providing a safe and rewarding work environment and fostering employee growth.