Process Development Engineer - Scale-Up Specialist

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Process Development Engineer with scale-up focus for a hybrid role in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will translate lab innovations into pilot and full-scale manufacturing, designing experiments, assessing data, and guiding technology transfer to production.

You will leverage Aspen Plus/HYSYS for modeling, work closely with R&D and operations, and drive safety and quality throughout the scale-up process.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 6+ years of experience in process development and scale-up in chemicals.
• Strong understanding of scale-dependent phenomena and risk assessment.

Responsibilities

• Lead scale-up of processes from lab to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Design and execute pilot plant studies to validate parameters and identify scale-up challenges.
• Analyze pilot data, interpret results, and recommend process optimization.
• Develop models to predict performance at larger scales and support tech transfer.
• Collaborate with R&D and production to ensure smooth transitions to manufacturing.
• Select equipment for pilot operations ensuring safety and quality standards.

Skills

Scale-up expertise

Data interpretation

Hybrid collaboration

Strong communication

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Process modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking chemical research and development company, is seeking a skilled Process Development Engineer with a specialization in scale-up. This hybrid role, based in Tembisa, Gauteng , will be instrumental in translating laboratory innovations into viable, commercial-scale manufacturing processes. You will focus on designing, executing, and analyzing pilot plant trials, ensuring smooth transitions from bench to production. Your expertise in chemical engineering principles, coupled with practical experience in scale-up challenges, will be critical. This position offers a stimulating environment where you can contribute to the development of new chemical products and processes. The hybrid nature of the role allows for both focused independent work and essential collaborative engagement with R&D and production teams. You will be at the forefront of bringing innovative chemical solutions to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the scale-up of chemical processes from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Design and execute experimental plans for pilot plant studies to validate process parameters and identify scale-up challenges.
• Analyze pilot plant data, interpret results, and make recommendations for process optimization and troubleshooting.
• Develop process models and simulations to predict performance at larger scales.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists and engineers to ensure effective technology transfer.
• Specify and select appropriate equipment for pilot plant operations.
• Ensure all scale-up activities adhere to strict safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, including scale-up strategies and operational procedures.
• Troubleshoot issues encountered during pilot plant operations and scale-up phases.
• Contribute to the design and development of full-scale manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process development and scale-up within the chemical industry.
• Demonstrated success in scaling up chemical processes, with a strong understanding of scale-dependent phenomena.
• Proficiency in process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience with pilot plant operations and equipment design.
• Solid understanding of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer.
• Knowledge of process safety principles and risk assessment techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical coverage and retirement contributions. This hybrid role provides a flexible work arrangement based in Tembisa, Gauteng . We support continuous learning and professional development, offering access to advanced training and industry conferences. Join an innovative company focused on bringing cutting-edge chemical technologies to market. You will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to scientific advancement and operational excellence. Experience a rewarding career at the intersection of R&D and manufacturing.