Chemical Engineer - Specialty Polymers

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Training & development

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Engineer to join our production and R&D team in Welkom, Free State. You will develop and optimize processes for specialty polymers, run pilot-scale trials, and collaborate with the R&D team to scale up new formulations for commercial production.

The role requires a strong polymer chemistry background, 5+ years in process development, and the ability to work in a hybrid model while ensuring safety and quality standards across manufacturing operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science.
• 5+ years in chemical process development and optimization, preferably polymers.
• Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymerization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize processes for specialty polymers.
• Run pilot-scale trials and analyze formulation results.
• Scale up from lab to production with R&D team.
• Ensure safety, quality, and environmental compliance.
• Prepare technical reports and procedures for processes.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Process development

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science

Tools

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role Our client, a progressive manufacturer of high-performance specialty polymers, is seeking a motivated and innovative Chemical Engineer to join their production and R&D team in **Welkom, Free State**. This role is central to developing and scaling up new polymer formulations, optimizing existing manufacturing processes, and ensuring consistent product quality. You will work with cutting-edge materials and technologies, contributing to the development of advanced solutions for various industries. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical understanding of polymer chemistry and chemical engineering principles, coupled with practical experience in process development, troubleshooting, and scale-up. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to product innovation and operational excellence within a growing company. The **Welkom** location provides a unique industrial setting for this specialized role.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical processes for the synthesis and manufacturing of specialty polymers.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot-scale trials to evaluate new formulations and process modifications.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements for yield, quality, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with the R&D team to scale up new products from lab to commercial production.
• Ensure processes comply with safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality control protocols.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and operational procedures for new and existing processes.
• Work closely with production teams to provide technical support and resolve operational challenges.
• Stay current with advancements in polymer science and chemical engineering relevant to the industry.
• Participate in equipment selection, process design, and installation for new manufacturing capabilities.
• Manage small to medium-sized engineering projects related to process improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in chemical process development and optimization, preferably within the polymer industry.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, polymerization techniques, and material science.
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools is advantageous.
• Familiarity with scale-up principles and challenges in chemical manufacturing.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities, with a proactive approach.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, adapting to both remote analysis and on-site plant operations.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001).

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including training in new technologies and management skills, are provided.
• The company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Employees enjoy a balanced work-life arrangement and access to modern laboratory and production facilities in **Welkom**.
• This position is suitable for candidates looking for a hybrid work arrangement.