Chemical Engineer - Optimization Specialist

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health & retirement benefits

Training in analytics

Stable work environment

Professional certification support

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl is partnering with a client to recruit a highly analytical Chemical Engineer focused on optimization. You will analyze operational data, identify bottlenecks, and implement strategies to improve yields and reduce waste across chemical processes.

The role requires 5+ years in process engineering, strong data analysis skills, and experience with Minitab and Python. Collaboration with plant engineers and operators is essential for sustainable improvements.

Qualifications

• B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering.
• 5+ years in process engineering focusing on optimization and data analysis.
• Proficient with data analysis tools and statistical software (Minitab, Python with Pandas).
• Experience with process simulation and modeling software.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma knowledge is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze operational data to identify KPIs and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization to boost yield and cut energy use.
• Use SPC to monitor process stability and performance.
• Collaborate with plant personnel to implement process changes and provide technical support.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare reports detailing performance, initiatives and results.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical software

Process optimization

Root cause analysis

Communication skills

Education

B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Minitab

Python (Pandas)

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively recruiting a highly analytical Chemical Engineer specializing in Optimization to join their operations in Paarl . This role is dedicated to enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of existing chemical processes. You will utilize advanced data analysis techniques, statistical methods, and engineering principles to identify bottlenecks, improve yields, and reduce waste. Working closely with plant engineers and operators, you will implement and monitor process improvements, ensuring sustainable operational excellence. This is a key position for someone passionate about leveraging data to drive tangible improvements in a manufacturing setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze operational data to identify key performance indicators and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization, focusing on yield enhancement and energy reduction.
• Utilize statistical process control (SPC) techniques to monitor and maintain process stability.
• Collaborate with plant personnel to implement process changes and provide technical support.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare reports detailing process performance, optimization initiatives, and results.

Requirements

• B.Eng. or B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in process engineering, with a focus on optimization and data analysis.
• Strong proficiency in data analysis tools and statistical software (e.g., Minitab, Python with Pandas).
• Experience with process simulation and modeling software.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Attractive salary with performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits package.
• Opportunities for specialized training in advanced analytics and process optimization.
• A stable and secure work environment in a key industrial region.
• Support for professional engineering certifications.