Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer to join our team in Tembisa, Gauteng, hybrid role. You will help design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to improve efficiency and sustainability across production lines.

Responsibilities include piloting scale-up studies, producing PFDs and P&IDs, and collaborating with R&D, production, and maintenance to ensure smooth integration and safety compliance. A degree in chemical engineering and 3–5 years of experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• 3–5 years of experience in chemical process design, optimization or operations.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD).
• Solid understanding of core chemical engineering principles including mass and heat transfer.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing chemical processes to improve yield, reduce waste and energy use.
• Design and implement new chemical process technologies and equipment.
• Conduct pilot plant studies and scale-up from lab to commercial scale.
• Create Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions for deviations.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance for seamless integration.
• Perform process safety reviews and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Monitor KPIs for chemical processes and recommend improvements.

Skills

Chemical Engineering

Process design

Process optimization

PFDs

P&IDs

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is looking for a talented Chemical Engineer to join our team in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA . This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds, combining the collaboration of in-office work with the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, and optimizing chemical processes that are critical to our operations. This position involves working on innovative projects, ensuring efficiency, safety, and sustainability in all our chemical manufacturing activities. As a Chemical Engineer, you will contribute significantly to the continuous improvement of our production lines and the successful implementation of new technologies. Your expertise will be vital in maintaining our high standards and driving operational excellence in a complex industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing chemical processes to improve yield, reduce waste, and enhance energy efficiency.
• Design and implement new chemical process technologies and equipment.
• Conduct pilot plant studies and scale-up of processes from laboratory to commercial scale.
• Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions for process deviations.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless process integration.
• Perform process safety reviews and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for chemical processes and recommend improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 3-5 years of experience in chemical process design, optimization, or operations.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD).
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, including mass and heat