Chemical Engineer - Polymer Production

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Leave allowance

Career advancement

Professional development

Polymer development projects

Stable work environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chemical Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of polymer production processes in George, Western Cape. The role emphasizes safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant manufacturing and offers exposure to advanced polymer technologies.

The ideal candidate will have 4+ years in chemical process engineering, a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, and strong data analysis, process simulation, and safety skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in chemical process engineering focused on polymers.
• Proven ability to conduct process simulations and data analysis.
• Knowledge of polymerisation techniques, material science, and rheology.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment.
• Excellent problem-solving and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of polymer production lines for optimal performance.
• Design, implement and refine chemical processes for polymers.
• Analyze process data to identify efficiency, quality, and cost improvements.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures for materials and products.
• Collaborate with R&D to scale up polymer formulations from lab to production.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance throughout production.

Skills

Polymer science

Process simulations

Data analysis

PSM knowledge

Safety compliance

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process control systems

Instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the specialty chemicals industry, is actively seeking a dedicated and skilled Chemical Engineer to join their growing operations in **George, Western Cape**. This critical role will focus on the design, development, and optimization of processes involved in polymer production. The successful candidate will play a key part in ensuring that manufacturing processes are efficient, safe, and environmentally compliant, contributing to the company's reputation for high-quality products. You will have the opportunity to work with advanced technologies and contribute to innovative product development cycles. This position is ideal for a proactive engineer eager to make a significant impact in a challenging yet rewarding environment, fostering continuous improvement in polymer manufacturing techniques. Join a team committed to excellence and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of polymer production lines, ensuring optimal performance and output.
• Design, implement, and refine chemical processes for the synthesis and modification of polymers.
• Conduct detailed analysis of process data to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, quality, and cost reduction.
• Develop and implement robust quality control procedures for raw materials and finished polymer products.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to scale up new polymer formulations from lab to pilot and commercial scale.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations throughout the production process.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions to maintain operational stability.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including process descriptions, operating manuals, and safety guidelines.
• Train and mentor junior technical staff on process operations and safety standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in chemical process engineering, with a strong emphasis on polymer science and production.
• Proven ability to conduct process simulations and data analysis.
• Knowledge of polymerisation techniques, material science, and rheology.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment methodologies.
• Excellent problem‑solving capabilities and a meticulous approach to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with process control systems and instrumentation is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **George, Western Cape**.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Generous leave allowance and company‑provided benefits.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Continuous learning and professional development support.
• Involvement in exciting new polymer development projects.
• A stable and supportive work environment in **George, Western Cape**.