Chemical Engineer - Polymerization Processes

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Medical aid & retirement fund

Life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Chemical Engineer with a strong background in polymerization to join our Centurion facility. You will lead development, optimization and scale‑up of polymerization processes for high‑performance polymers.

The role requires a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering with 5+ years in chemical process engineering, strong kinetics knowledge, Aspen Plus proficiency and a commitment to safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 5 years in chemical process engineering with a polymerization focus.
• Strong knowledge of polymerization techniques (free radical, ionic, condensation).
• Experience with reactor modelling and kinetics is essential.
• Proficiency in process safety management (PSM) and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize continuous and batch polymerization processes.
• Design experiments to improve efficiency, product quality and yield.
• Develop control strategies for polymerization reactors.
• Conduct PHAs and ensure regulatory safety compliance.
• Troubleshoot deviations and equipment issues with corrective actions.
• Collaborate with R&D, production and QA to meet project goals.

Skills

Polymerization expertise

Process optimization

Process modeling

Data analysis

Communication

Education

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials manufacturing, is seeking an experienced Chemical Engineer with specialized knowledge in polymerization processes to join their innovative team in Centurion, Gauteng . This role is crucial for the development, optimization, and scale-up of complex polymerization reactions used in the production of high-performance polymers. You will be responsible for ensuring efficient, safe, and environmentally compliant operations. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical understanding combined with practical experience in reactor design, process control, and troubleshooting within a chemical manufacturing setting. This position offers the opportunity to work on challenging projects, contribute to product innovation, and drive operational excellence. You will be an integral part of a dedicated team focused on pushing the boundaries of material science and contributing to the company's continued success in the global market.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize continuous and batch polymerization processes.
• Design and conduct experiments to improve process efficiency, product quality, and yield.
• Develop and implement process control strategies for polymerization reactors.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and equipment malfunctions, implementing corrective actions.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality control teams to meet project objectives.
• Prepare detailed process documentation, including P&IDs, material and energy balances, and operating procedures.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process enhancement.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and technical staff on polymerization processes.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in polymer science or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a significant focus on polymerization.
• In-depth knowledge of various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, ionic, condensation).
• Experience with polymer reaction kinetics and reactor modeling.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus) and statistical tools.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Experience in the plastics or advanced materials industry is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary, a performance-based bonus structure, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including further training and conference attendance, are provided.
• The company culture fosters innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• This position is based at our state-of-the-art facility in Centurion, Gauteng , offering a stable and engaging work environment.
• Employees are entitled to generous annual and sick leave.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• Join a company committed to technological advancement and employee growth.