Senior Process Chemist

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 61,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is actively seeking a Senior Process Chemist in Welkom, SA. The role focuses on developing, scaling, and optimizing chemical processes from laboratory through production scales, with emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance.

The candidate will analyze kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass transfer phenomena; collaborate with R&D, engineering, and production teams; mentor junior staff; and drive efficiency and sustainability across operations.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial chemical process development and scale-up.
• Experience with reaction engineering and process simulation (Aspen Plus).
• Skilled with HPLC, GC, and spectroscopy for monitoring.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up chemical processes from laboratory to pilot and full production scales.
• Conduct detailed experimental investigations on kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass transfer.
• Analyze process data and implement actions to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Design and run experiments to troubleshoot deviations and resolve issues.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and production for technology transfer.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance in all activities.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for stakeholders and submissions.
• Mentor junior chemists and guide plant personnel.

Skills

Reaction engineering

Process simulation (Aspen Plus)

Analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, spect

Hazardous materials safety

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Project management

Laboratory and plant operations

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field

Tools

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the chemical manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Chemist to join their dynamic team in Welkom, Free State . This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects, optimize existing processes, and drive operational excellence. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our chemical production operations. This role offers a blend of laboratory work, plant-based analysis, and strategic process development, making it ideal for a hands-on professional looking to make a significant impact. We are committed to fostering a collaborative work environment where scientific expertise is valued and continuous learning is encouraged. If you are passionate about chemical engineering and seeking a challenging yet rewarding career, this position is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up chemical processes from laboratory to pilot and full production scales.
• Conduct detailed experimental investigations to understand reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass transfer phenomena.
• Analyze process data, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions to enhance yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Design and execute experiments to troubleshoot process deviations and resolve production issues.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, engineering, and production teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and effective implementation of new processes.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with stringent safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor junior chemists and provide technical guidance to plant personnel.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization within an industrial setting.
• Proven expertise in reaction engineering, process simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus), and statistical analysis.
• Strong understanding of analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, and spectroscopy for process monitoring and control.
• Demonstrated experience in handling hazardous materials and implementing safety protocols in a laboratory and plant environment.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a strong analytical and quantitative aptitude.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in project management and a track record of successfully delivering projects on time and within budget.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Employees will benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, a generous provident fund contribution, and opportunities for professional development and further training. We provide a supportive work environment that encourages innovation and personal growth. Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates. Join our client and become part of a forward-thinking organization that values its employees and invests in their future. This role is based in Welkom, Free State .