Junior Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Redmond (WA); Hybrid; USD 10,000 - 16,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Stipend

Mentorship

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, is seeking a Junior Process Development Engineer intern to join a dynamic R&D team. You will assist with lab and pilot-scale experiments, support process optimization, and contribute to scale-up and new product development under experienced mentors.

The role emphasizes hands-on learning, data analysis, and documentation in a collaborative hybrid environment, with a competitive stipend and strong growth potential for recent graduates.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field, completed within the last two years.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation abilities.
• Proficient in Excel and data analysis; comfortable with data-driven decision making.
• Effective written and verbal communication; able to work both independently and in a team.
• Experience with internship or co-op is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers with lab and pilot-scale experiments.
• Support process optimization to improve yield and efficiency.
• Review literature and analyze data to guide development.
• Prepare technical reports and experimental procedures.
• Participate in process safety reviews and risk assessments.
• Monitor and troubleshoot experimental setups and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists on new product development.
• Gain hands-on experience with chemical processing equipment.
• Maintain a safe, organized laboratory environment.
• Assist scale-up from lab to pilot or commercial scale.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Data interpretation

Excel

Written and verbal communication

Team collaboration

Eagerness to learn

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic specialty chemicals manufacturer, is seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Junior Process Development Engineer to join their innovative research and development team in Welkom, Free State . This internship position offers an unparalleled opportunity for a recent graduate to gain practical experience in process optimization, scale-up, and new product development within a supportive and collaborative hybrid work environment. You will work closely with experienced engineers and scientists on exciting projects, contributing to the improvement of existing manufacturing processes and the development of novel chemical applications. This is a foundational role for aspiring chemical engineers looking to launch their careers in a progressive industrial setting in Welkom .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in the design and execution of laboratory and pilot-scale experiments.
• Support process optimization initiatives to enhance yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Conduct literature reviews and data analysis to inform process development activities.
• Help prepare technical reports, documentation, and experimental procedures.
• Participate in process safety reviews and risk assessments.
• Monitor and troubleshoot experimental setups and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and engineers on new product development projects.
• Gain hands-on experience with various chemical processing equipment and analytical techniques.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe and organized laboratory environment.
• Assist in the scale-up of processes from laboratory to pilot plant or commercial scale.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline, obtained within the last two years.
• Strong academic record with a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis.
• Basic knowledge of process simulation software is a plus.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be eligible to work in Welkom, Free State .
• Prior internship or co-op experience in a relevant field is advantageous.

Benefits

This internship program offers a competitive stipend and valuable hands‑on experience within a leading chemical manufacturing company. Interns receive dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals, providing guidance for their future careers. The hybrid work model allows for a balance between structured learning on-site and focused work remotely. Our client is committed to fostering talent and provides exposure to a wide range of chemical engineering disciplines. This is an excellent stepping stone for individuals seeking to build a strong foundation in the chemical industry in Welkom .