Chemical Engineer - Polymer Process Optimization

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Medical aid

Leave entitlement

Career growth

Stellenbosch work environment

Exposure to innovative practices

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks a Chemical Engineer to optimize polymer production processes, improving yield, cycle times, and cost efficiency. You will troubleshoot issues, implement improvements and support plant operations with detailed analysis.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering and a minimum of four years’ experience in polymer processing. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential, with a proactive, collaborative approach to SHE

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in chemical process engineering focusing on polymer production/processing.
• Solid understanding of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex process problems.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize polymer manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize waste.
• Troubleshoot production issues, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective actions.
• Develop and implement process improvements using data analysis, simulation, and SPC.
• Support commissioning and validation of new equipment and process modifications.
• Collaborate with R&D on process scale-up and technology transfer.
• Ensure all operations comply with SHE regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Monitor process performance metrics and identify trends for continuous improvement.
• Participate in safety reviews and risk assessments for process changes.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through process efficiency enhancements.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Data analysis

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the polymers industry, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Engineer to join their team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is focused on optimizing existing polymer production processes to enhance efficiency, product quality, and cost-effectiveness. You will be involved in troubleshooting production issues, implementing process improvements, and supporting plant operations through detailed analysis and practical engineering solutions. This is a hands-on role that requires a strong understanding of polymer chemistry and processing, coupled with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. You will work closely with operations and quality control teams to ensure the highest standards of production are maintained. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated chemical engineer to make a tangible impact within a key sector of the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize polymer manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize waste.
• Troubleshoot production issues, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective actions.
• Develop and implement process improvements using data analysis, simulation, and statistical process control (SPC).
• Support the commissioning and validation of new equipment and process modifications.
• Collaborate with the R&D department on process scale-up and technology transfer.
• Ensure all operations comply with safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Monitor process performance metrics and identify trends for continuous improvement.
• Participate in safety reviews and risk assessments for process changes.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through process efficiency enhancements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a focus on polymer production or processing.
• Solid understanding of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex process problems.
• Strong knowledge of safety procedures and environmental regulations in a chemical plant setting.
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Proficiency in statistical software is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings plan.
• Generous annual leave and access to professional development programs.
• Opportunities for career growth within the company.
• A stimulating work environment in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , contributing to advancements in polymer technology.
• Exposure to innovative manufacturing practices.