Chemical Engineer - Pharmaceutical Process Development

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical cover

Retirement savings plans

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chemical Engineer for a pharmaceutical client in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role blends lab-based process optimization with pilot-scale development and remote strategic planning.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering, 7+ years in pharma process development, and strong expertise in cGMP, Aspen Plus, and data analysis. Hybrid work with close collaboration across R&D, QA, and manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• Experience in pharmaceutical process development or regulated environments is essential.
• Strong knowledge of organic synthesis, kinetics, separation, and crystallization.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize API/Intermediates processes with scalability and cost-effectiveness.
• Design and run pilot plant studies for new processes and troubleshooting.
• Use process modeling to predict performance and identify critical parameters.
• Prepare process docs, P&IDs, and batch records for tech transfer to manufacturing.

Skills

Organic Synthesis

Reaction Kinetics

Separation Techniques

Crystallization

Process Scale-up

Pilot Plant Ops

Technology Transfer

cGMP Compliance

Aspen Plus

Minitab

Data Analysis

Communication

Cross-functional Team

Education

MS in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly reputable pharmaceutical company at the forefront of drug discovery and manufacturing, is looking for a skilled Chemical Engineer to join their Process Development team, serving operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This hybrid role offers a dynamic mix of laboratory-based process optimization and pilot-scale development, alongside strategic planning and analysis conducted remotely. The focus will be on designing, scaling-up, and validating robust manufacturing processes for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and drug products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles applied to pharmaceutical production, with a keen eye for detail, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical processes for the synthesis of APIs and intermediates, ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness.
• Design and execute pilot plant studies to validate new processes and troubleshoot existing ones.
• Utilize process modeling and simulation tools to predict process performance and identify critical control parameters.
• Prepare detailed process descriptions, P&IDs, and batch records for technology transfer to manufacturing sites.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists, formulation scientists, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless project progression.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety measures in line with cGMP guidelines.
• Support validation activities (IQ/OQ/PQ) for new equipment and processes.
• Analyze process data, identify trends, and author technical reports summarizing findings and recommendations.
• Stay current with industry best practices, regulatory requirements (FDA, EMA), and emerging technologies in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in pharmaceutical process development or a related regulated industry (e.g., fine chemicals, biotechnology).
• Strong knowledge of organic synthesis, reaction kinetics, separation techniques, and crystallization.
• Experience with process scale-up, pilot plant operations, and technology transfer.
• Familiarity with cGMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory submission requirements.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus) and statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Experience working within a hybrid model is essential.
• Previous experience supporting pharmaceutical operations near Stellenbosch, Western Cape is highly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, an excellent benefits package including comprehensive medical cover, retirement savings plans, and performance-related bonuses. This hybrid role in Stellenbosch provides opportunities for significant professional growth and contribution to life-saving medicines, coupled with a flexible work arrangement.