Chemical Engineer - Industrial Biotechnology

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth

Training programs

Industry conferences access

Innovation-focused environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking a Chemical Engineer to develop and optimize bio-based chemical processes within industrial biotechnology. You will work on bioreactor design, fermentation, and downstream processing, applying biochemical engineering principles to create eco-friendly manufacturing solutions.

With 2–4 years of experience, you will model processes, perform techno-economic assessments, and scale from lab to pilot, collaborating across disciplines to drive safety and

Qualifications

• B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Master's in biotechnology/ biochemical engineering is advantageous.
• 2–4 years in chemical process development with biotech focus.
• Hands-on experience with bioreactors, fermentation and downstream processing.
• Familiarity with process simulation software for bioprocesses.
• Strong biochemical engineering principles and enzyme kinetics.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.
• Good written and verbal communication.
• Awareness of safety and environmental regulations in biotech.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize bioreactor processes for bio-based chemicals.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic assessments.
• Scale-up processes from lab to pilot and potentially commercial scale.
• Perform process modeling and simulations for bioprocesses.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in fermentation and purification.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with microbiologists, biochemists, and engineers on R&D.
• Analyze process data and implement efficiency improvements.
• Prepare technical reports and research findings.
• Stay updated on advancements in industrial biotechnology.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Written & verbal communication

Safety and environmental awareness

Education

B.Eng./B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

Master's in biotechnology/ biochemical engineering (advantage)

Tools

Process simulation software

Bioreactors & fermentation

Downstream processing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in sustainable industrial solutions, is looking for a bright and innovative Chemical Engineer to join their cutting‑edge team focused on industrial biotechnology. This role, based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, will involve developing and optimizing bio‑based chemical processes for sustainable manufacturing. You will be at the forefront of applying chemical engineering principles to biological systems, contributing to the creation of eco‑friendly products and processes. This is an exceptional opportunity to work within a rapidly growing field, driving environmental innovation and contributing to a greener future. The position offers a chance to work with advanced biotechnologies and collaborate with a passionate team dedicated to making a difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize bioreactor processes and downstream purification steps for bio‑based chemicals.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno‑economic assessments for new bio‑processes.
• Scale‑up processes from laboratory to pilot and potentially commercial scale.
• Perform process modeling and simulations for bioprocesses.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in fermentation and purification processes.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety, environmental, and quality standards for bioprocessing.
• Collaborate with microbiologists, biochemists, and other engineers on R&D projects.
• Analyze process data and implement improvements for efficiency and sustainability.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and research findings.
• Stay updated on advancements in industrial biotechnology and bioprocess engineering.

Requirements

• B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering is required.
• A Master's degree with a focus on biotechnology or biochemical engineering is highly advantageous.
• 2-4 years of experience in chemical process development, with a specific interest or experience in industrial biotechnology or bioprocessing.
• Hands‑on experience with bioreactors, fermentation, and downstream processing is preferred.
• Familiarity with process simulation software for bioprocesses.
• Strong understanding of biochemical engineering principles, microbial physiology, and enzyme kinetics.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Awareness of safety and environmental regulations related to biotechnology.
• Enthusiasm for sustainable technologies and bio‑based manufacturing.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package
• annual bonuses
• comprehensive health insurance
• retirement savings plan
• Professional growth is encouraged through access to cutting‑edge research
• training programs
• opportunities to attend industry conferences
• This role in Port Elizabeth is focused on innovation in a key growth sector, offering a dynamic and rewarding career path within a company dedicated to environmental stewardship.