Chemical Engineer - Polymerization Specialist

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Flexible work arrangement

State-of-the-art laboratory facilities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Tembisa, Gauteng, South Africa is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer specializing in polymerization to advance our advanced materials division. The role blends on-site laboratory work with remote strategic planning, driving development from lab discoveries to commercial production.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or Master's preferred, 4+ years in polymerization, and strong data analytics and PSM knowledge.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years in chemical process engineering with focus on polymerization.
• Knowledge of polymerization techniques (free radical, condensation, living).
• Experience with process simulation software is a plus.
• Proficient in data analysis and statistical process control.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and in a hybrid environment.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and optimization of polymerization processes for new and existing polymers.
• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to evaluate catalysts, monomers, and reaction conditions.
• Scale-up polymerization processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to identify critical process parameters and troubleshoot issues.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for polymerization units, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists, material scientists, and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and process documentation.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymer science and chemical engineering technologies.
• Provide technical support and guidance to manufacturing operations.

Skills

Polymerization

Process optimization

Data analysis

Statistical process control

PSM principles

Laboratory work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and innovative Chemical Engineer specializing in polymerization to join their advanced materials division in **Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA**. This hybrid role offers a unique blend of on-site laboratory work and remote strategic planning, providing flexibility while ensuring hands-on involvement in critical projects. You will be instrumental in developing and refining novel polymerization processes, driving advancements in material science. This position requires a deep understanding of polymer chemistry and reaction kinetics, coupled with practical experience in process scale-up and optimization. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinker, capable of translating laboratory discoveries into commercially viable production processes. Join a team that is at the forefront of chemical innovation, contributing to a sustainable future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and optimization of polymerization processes for new and existing polymers.
• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to evaluate catalysts, monomers, and reaction conditions.
• Scale-up polymerization processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to identify critical process parameters and troubleshoot issues.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for polymerization units, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists, material scientists, and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and process documentation.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymer science and chemical engineering technologies.
• Provide technical support and guidance to manufacturing operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a focus on polymerization.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus) is a plus.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical process control.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a hybrid work environment.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) principles.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and deliver results.

Benefits

• This hybrid position offers a competitive annual salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Employees enjoy medical aid contributions, a provident fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• The role provides a flexible work arrangement, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and opportunities for professional development and training are key components of this offering.
• You will also be part of an innovative company culture that values collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Paid leave and sick leave benefits are provided in accordance with company policy.