Chemical Engineer - Specialty Chemicals

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Engineer to join its Port Elizabeth-based team. The role focuses on developing, optimizing, and scaling processes for specialty chemicals, with hands-on lab work, pilot plant trials, and support for full-scale manufacturing.

You will collaborate with R&D and manufacturing to transfer technology from lab to plant, ensure safe and economical operations, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in a hybrid Port Elizabeth environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in process development or manufacturing within the specialty chemical industry.
• Hands-on laboratory synthesis and pilot plant operations.
• Knowledge of chemical reaction engineering and separation processes.
• Experience with project management is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes for specialty chemicals.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials to assess process feasibility and scalability.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
• Troubleshoot production issues and provide technical support to manufacturing teams.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and engineers to ensure smooth technology transfer from lab to plant.
• Prepare detailed process documentation, including batch records, SOPs, and PFDs.
• Ensure compliance with stringent quality, safety, and environmental regulations specific to specialty chemicals.
• Assist in the design and commissioning of new process equipment.
• Manage project timelines and resources for assigned development tasks.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing operations.

Skills

Laboratory skills

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking company specializing in high-value specialty chemicals, is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer to join their innovative team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role focuses on the development, optimization, and scale-up of processes for new and existing specialty chemical products. You will be involved in hands-on laboratory work, pilot plant trials, and supporting full-scale manufacturing. This position offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge chemical solutions. The role requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring processes are efficient, safe, and economically viable.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes for specialty chemicals.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials to assess process feasibility and scalability.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
• Troubleshoot production issues and provide technical support to manufacturing teams.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and engineers to ensure smooth technology transfer from lab to plant.
• Prepare detailed process documentation, including batch records, SOPs, and PFDs.
• Ensure compliance with stringent quality, safety, and environmental regulations specific to specialty chemicals.
• Assist in the design and commissioning of new process equipment.
• Manage project timelines and resources for assigned development tasks.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in process development or manufacturing within the specialty chemical industry.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory synthesis and pilot plant operations.
• Good understanding of chemical reaction engineering and separation processes.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques and process control strategies.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Knowledge of safety protocols relevant to chemical manufacturing.
• Experience with project management is a plus.
• Adaptability to work effectively in both laboratory and plant environments.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive medical benefits
• Retirement savings options
• Hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between on-site work in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, and remote flexibility
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional training
• Join a company committed to innovation and excellence in the specialty chemicals sector