Polymer Process Optimization Engineer – Upington

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

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.