Lead Process Development Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 72,000 - 144,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health coverage

Retirement benefits

Equity options

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Development Engineer for a fully remote role based in South Africa. You will guide a team of process engineers through development, scale-up, and tech transfer of new chemical processes, coordinating with R&D and manufacturing to ensure economic viability.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering with 8+ years of experience, strong leadership, and expertise in Aspen Plus or ChemCAD, PHAs, and risk mitigation in a remote setting.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in process development, scale-up and optimization.
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams.
• Experience with process simulation software and statistical analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of process engineers in development and scale-up of new chemical processes.
• Oversee design, simulation, optimization, ensuring scalability and economic feasibility, remote-friendly.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, balances and equipment specs.

Skills

Leadership

Process development

Project management

Virtual collaboration

Education

PhD or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing specialty chemicals manufacturer, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Process Development Engineer for a fully remote position. This role is paramount in driving the innovation and scaling of novel chemical processes from laboratory concept to commercial viability. You will lead a team of talented engineers, guiding them through the intricacies of process design, optimization, and scale-up, all while working from your remote location within South Africa . The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership qualities, exceptional technical acumen, and a proven track record in bringing new chemical technologies to market. This role demands independence, proactive problem-solving, and exceptional virtual collaboration skills. Our client is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, globally connected remote team culture.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a team of process engineers in the development and scale-up of new chemical processes. Oversee the design, simulation, and optimization of chemical processes, ensuring scalability and economic feasibility, all managed remotely. Develop comprehensive project plans, manage timelines, and allocate resources effectively for process development initiatives. Collaborate closely with R&D scientists to translate laboratory findings into robust pilot and commercial-scale processes. Conduct thorough process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement risk mitigation strategies in a virtual setting. Prepare detailed technical documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specifications. Interface with manufacturing, engineering, and procurement teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and project execution. Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends, recommending innovative solutions. Present project updates and findings to senior management and cross-functional stakeholders. Ensure all process development activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field. Minimum of 8 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical industry. Proven leadership experience, with a track record of managing engineering teams. Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD) and statistical analysis tools. Deep understanding of reaction engineering, separation processes, and process intensification techniques. Experience with pilot plant operations and commissioning of new chemical facilities. Excellent project management skills, including budget and schedule control. Superior analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. Exceptional virtual communication and collaboration skills, adept at using digital tools for team management. Must be comfortable working independently and managing multiple priorities in a remote setting.

Benefits

This exceptional remote role offers a highly competitive annual salary of R , comprehensive health coverage, robust retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development. Our client champions work-life balance and offers the flexibility of a fully remote work arrangement, coupled with challenging and impactful projects. You will have access to advanced digital tools and continuous learning resources. Join a pioneering company that values innovation, collaboration, and employee well-being in a virtual-first environment. Performance bonuses and equity options may be available for outstanding contributions.