Chemical Engineer - Product Development

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus opportunities

Medical and retirement benefits

Paid vacation and holidays

Growth and training

Modern laboratory facilities

Employee recognition

Clear career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a Chemical Engineer focused on Product Development to join their on-site team. You will drive lab-scale synthesis, optimize processes, and manage scale-up studies from R&D to manufacturing.

You will collaborate with researchers, chemists, and production staff to deliver new products, with emphasis on safety, quality, and timely project delivery. A strong foundation in organic chemistry and chemical engineering is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry.
• 2–5 years of experience in chemical product development, R&D, or process engineering.
• Strong understanding of synthetic chemistry and process scale-up principles.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation.
• Proficiency with process simulation software is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments for new product synthesis and formulation.
• Develop and optimize chemical processes for product manufacturing.
• Perform scale-up studies from bench to pilot and commercial scale.
• Characterize new products and intermediates using analytical techniques.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and formulators on product development projects.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for product development milestones.
• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during development and scale-up.
• Ensure all development activities adhere to safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Assist in the transfer of developed processes to the manufacturing team.
• Stay abreast of new chemical technologies and market trends.
• Manage project timelines and resources effectively for product development initiatives.

Skills

Chemical engineering

Organic chemistry

Scale-up

Lab equipment

Analytical instruments

Process simulation

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry

Tools

Analytical instruments

Spectrometers

Lab automation tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative company in the specialty chemicals sector, is seeking a motivated Chemical Engineer focused on Product Development to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape. This on-site position is integral to the development and commercialization of new chemical products. You will be involved in laboratory-scale synthesis, process optimization, scale-up studies, and the transition of products from R&D to manufacturing. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in organic chemistry and chemical engineering principles, with a passion for innovation and bringing new products to market. You will work closely with research scientists, chemists, and manufacturing personnel to ensure successful product development cycles. This role requires excellent problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and creative work environment where your contributions are valued. Our client offers excellent opportunities for professional growth and development within a growing industry. You will be instrumental in shaping the future product portfolio. We seek individuals who are eager to contribute to cutting-edge chemical solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments for new product synthesis and formulation.
• Develop and optimize chemical processes for product manufacturing.
• Perform scale-up studies from bench to pilot and commercial scale.
• Characterize new products and intermediates using analytical techniques.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and formulators on product development projects.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for product development milestones.
• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during development and scale-up.
• Ensure all development activities adhere to safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Assist in the transfer of developed processes to the manufacturing team.
• Stay abreast of new chemical technologies and market trends.
• Manage project timelines and resources effectively for product development initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry.
• 2-5 years of experience in chemical product development, R&D, or process engineering.
• Strong understanding of synthetic chemistry and process scale-up principles.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation.
• Proficiency in process simulation software is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with safety protocols in a laboratory and pilot plant setting.
• Experience in formulation science is advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects effectively.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid vacation and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth and training.
• Exposure to innovative product development projects.
• Supportive and collaborative team atmosphere.
• Modern laboratory facilities.
• Employee recognition programs.
• Clear career progression path.