Chemical Engineer - Polymer Process Optimization

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer to focus on polymer process optimization at its Upington facility in the Northern Cape (ZA). You will analyze existing polymer production processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements through data-driven strategies to enhance yield, quality, and cost-efficiency.

Collaboration with production, R&D and maintenance is essential. The candidate should have a strong background in polymer science, reaction kinetics and process control,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Engineering.
• 3-6 years of experience in chemical process engineering focusing on polymer manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, rheology and processing techniques ( extrusion, injection molding ).
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Understanding of process control systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize polymer manufacturing processes to improve yield, efficiency and product quality.
• Identify bottlenecks and address issues through data analysis and root cause investigation.
• Develop and implement process improvements including parameter and equipment changes.
• Collaborate with R&D to scale up and commercialize new polymer products.
• Monitor KPIs and provide regular performance reports.
• Ensure safety, health and environmental regulations are followed in production.

Skills

Data analysis

Process optimization

Root cause analysis

Polymer processing

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Polymer Engineering

Tools

Process simulation tools

Instrumentation & control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer to focus on polymer process optimization at their facility in **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA**. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of their polymer manufacturing operations. You will be involved in analyzing existing processes, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing improvements through data-driven approaches and engineering best practices. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of polymer science, reaction kinetics, and process control within a manufacturing environment. You will work closely with production teams, R&D, and maintenance to troubleshoot issues and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on operational performance in a key industrial sector. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring our client maintains a competitive edge through optimized production processes. You will play a key role in ensuring the highest standards of polymer production.

Key Responsibilities

Analyze and optimize polymer manufacturing processes to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality. Identify and address process bottlenecks and operational issues through data analysis and root cause investigation. Develop and implement process improvements, including modifications to operating parameters and equipment. Collaborate with R&D to facilitate the scale-up and commercialization of new polymer products. Monitor process performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide regular reports. Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations within the production environment. Work with maintenance teams to ensure equipment reliability and troubleshoot process-related equipment failures. Support the implementation of new technologies and process control strategies. Train and mentor junior engineers and operators on process best practices. Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through process optimization.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Engineering. 3-6 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a focus on polymer manufacturing. Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, rheology, and processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding). Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools. Understanding of process control systems and instrumentation. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills. Effective communication and teamwork abilities. Ability to work hands-on in a manufacturing plant environment. Familiarity with quality management systems and safety protocols. Proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development. The position is based in **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA**, offering a chance to work in a growing industrial hub. Our client is committed to providing a safe and rewarding work environment and fostering employee growth.