Senior Chemical Engineer - Polymer Production

Placements24; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 54,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for our Randburg, Gauteng facility to lead design and optimization of polymer production processes.

You will run simulations, develop P&IDs, ensure safety and quality, and mentor a team while coordinating with R&D, production and maintenance. This is a full-time, on-site role in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• 7+ years in process engineering with polymer or related industries.
• Strong knowledge of polymerization kinetics and reactor design.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, modification, and optimization of chemical processes for polymer manufacturing.
• Perform process simulations, mass and energy balances, and P&ID development.
• Troubleshoot issues and implement solutions to improve yield and efficiency.
• Oversee commissioning and start-up of new equipment and modifications.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance to support development and operations.
• Mentor junior engineers and prepare technical reports.

Skills

Process design

Troubleshooting

Mass & energy balances

P&ID development

PSM

Data analysis

Project management

Mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Knovel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of high-performance polymers, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Chemical Engineer to join their established team in Randburg, Gauteng. This role is critical for overseeing and optimizing the complex processes involved in polymer production. The successful candidate will be responsible for process design, troubleshooting, debottlenecking, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality are met. This is an excellent opportunity to leverage your expertise in polymer chemistry and process engineering within a dynamic and innovative manufacturing environment. The position requires a dedicated individual to be based full-time at our Randburg, Gauteng facility, contributing directly to the efficiency and success of our polymer production lines. You will be a key member of the engineering department, driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, modification, and optimization of chemical processes for polymer manufacturing.
• Conduct detailed process simulations, mass and energy balances, and P&ID development.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions to improve yield and efficiency.
• Oversee the commissioning and start-up of new equipment and process modifications.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality control procedures.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance teams to support product development and operational excellence.
• Develop and implement process improvement projects to reduce costs and enhance product quality.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to the operations team.
• Prepare technical reports, project documentation, and operational manuals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with a significant focus on polymer production or related industries.
• Strong understanding of polymerization kinetics, reactor design, and separation processes relevant to polymers.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Knovel) and data analysis tools.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment is essential.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, performance bonuses, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development.
• The role is based in Randburg, Gauteng, offering a stimulating work environment within a key industrial hub.
• Enjoy a collaborative culture focused on innovation and excellence in polymer manufacturing.
• We are committed to providing a safe and rewarding career path for our engineers.