Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a diligent Chemical Engineer to optimize manufacturing processes in East London, Eastern Cape. You will analyze data, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements across surface treatment, coatings, and synthesis, ensuring safety and quality standards.

The role emphasizes applying data-driven methods, collaborating with production, QA, and R&D teams, and driving operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years’ experience in process engineering in manufacturing/industrial settings.
• Proven experience in process optimization, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• Familiarity with SPC and DOE.
• Knowledge of surface treatment, coating, or chemical synthesis processes is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication.

Responsibilities

• Analyze chemical process data to identify opportunities for efficiency, yield, and quality improvement.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies using statistical methods and simulation tools.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure all processes comply with company standards, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with production, quality control, and R&D teams to implement process changes.
• Prepare detailed reports on process performance, improvements, and recommendations.
• Support commissioning and validation of new equipment and process modifications.
• Maintain process documentation, including SOPs and P&IDs.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Statistical process control

DOE

Surface treatment knowledge

Coatings knowledge

Chemical synthesis knowledge

Analytical mindset

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key contributor to the automotive supply chain, is seeking a diligent and analytical Chemical Engineer to focus on process optimization within their manufacturing operations in East London, Eastern Cape. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of their chemical processes, which include surface treatment, coatings, and material synthesis. You will be responsible for analyzing existing processes, identifying bottlenecks, implementing improvements, and ensuring adherence to strict quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles and a proven ability to apply data-driven approaches to problem-solving. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to operational excellence in a manufacturing environment in East London.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze chemical process data to identify opportunities for efficiency, yield, and quality improvement.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies using statistical methods and simulation tools.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure all processes comply with company standards, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with production, quality control, and R&D teams to implement process changes.
• Prepare detailed reports on process performance, improvements, and recommendations.
• Support the commissioning and validation of new equipment and process modifications.
• Maintain process documentation, including SOPs and P&IDs.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in process engineering, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Proven experience in process optimization, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and design of experiments (DOE).
• Knowledge of surface treatment, coating, or chemical synthesis processes is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Proficiency in process simulation software is advantageous.
• Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional development within the automotive supply sector. This role is based in East London, Eastern Cape, offering a stable work environment. Employees benefit from a supportive team, access to modern manufacturing facilities, and the chance to make a tangible impact on operational efficiency and product quality. Join a company committed to innovation and continuous improvement.