Chemical Engineer - Polymerization Processes

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible hybrid work

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional growth opportunities

Dynamic team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer with polymerization specialty to join our Stellenbosch team in a hybrid capacity. You will help develop, optimize and scale up polymerization processes for advanced materials, ensuring product quality and process safety while collaborating across R&D and production.

The role emphasizes process development, lab and pilot testing, and cross-functional teamwork in a dynamic research environment in the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 3–7 years in chemical engineering focused on polymerization.
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize polymerization processes for high quality products.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to test monomers, catalysts, and conditions.
• Troubleshoot processes to improve yield, cycle times and safety.
• Develop and maintain P&IDs, SOPs, and batch records.
• Collaborate with researchers, product development and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental and regulatory standards.

Skills

Polymerization knowledge

Analytical skills

Hybrid work capability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Our client is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer with specialized experience in polymerization processes to join their innovative team in Stellenbosch . This hybrid role allows for a blend of remote strategic work and on-site technical engagement. You will be instrumental in the development, optimization, and scale-up of polymerization processes for advanced materials. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring product quality, process efficiency, and safety compliance. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge material science research and development within a collaborative and forward-thinking organization in the Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize polymerization processes, ensuring high product quality and consistency.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to evaluate new monomers, catalysts, and process conditions.
• Troubleshoot process issues and implement solutions to improve yield, reduce cycle times, and enhance safety.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and batch records.
• Collaborate with research scientists, product development teams, and manufacturing personnel.
• Ensure all processes comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-7 years of experience in chemical engineering, with a strong focus on polymerization processes.
• Knowledge of different polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, ionic, condensation).
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid remote and on-site capacity in Stellenbosch.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement.
• Access to state-of-the‑art research and development facilities.
• Opportunities for professional growth and exposure to novel technologies.
• Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in polymer science.