Chemical Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Randfontein; Remote; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid leave

Professional development

Remote-friendly work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Process Development Engineer for a remote-first role based in Rustenburg, North West. The role focuses on R&D, scale-up, and optimization of novel chemical processes, collaborating with on-site teams via digital tools.

The ideal candidate holds a chemical engineering degree with at least 5 years of experience, strong analytical skills, and expertise in bench-to-pilot scale development, safety, and environmental compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in chemical process development or R&D.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting experiments, and analyzing results.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and pilot plant operations.
• Knowledge of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively in a remote setting.
• Experience with statistical analysis and DOE is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to develop and validate new chemical processes.
• Analyze experimental data and generate comprehensive reports with clear conclusions and recommendations.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and preliminary mass and energy balances for new processes.
• Identify and evaluate process scale-up challenges and propose solutions.
• Collaborate with research scientists and engineers to translate bench-scale findings into viable industrial processes.
• Optimize existing chemical processes for improved yield, purity, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Research and stay abreast of emerging technologies and methodologies in chemical process development.
• Contribute to the design and specification of process equipment for pilot and commercial plants.
• Ensure all development activities are conducted in accordance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Maintain detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and observations.

Skills

Chemical engineering

Data analysis

Lab experiments

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

DOE (Design of Experiments)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic chemical manufacturing company known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, is looking for a talented Chemical Process Development Engineer to join their team. This role is based in Rustenburg, North West and focuses on the research, development, and scale-up of novel chemical processes. You will be at the forefront of designing and testing new methodologies, optimizing existing operations for enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact. This position requires a strong analytical mindset and a passion for solving complex chemical engineering challenges. As the role is remote-first, you will have the flexibility to work from home while collaborating closely with on-site teams through advanced digital tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to develop and validate new chemical processes.
• Analyze experimental data and generate comprehensive reports with clear conclusions and recommendations.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and preliminary mass and energy balances for new processes.
• Identify and evaluate process scale-up challenges and propose solutions.
• Collaborate with research scientists and engineers to translate bench-scale findings into viable industrial processes.
• Optimize existing chemical processes for improved yield, purity, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Research and stay abreast of emerging technologies and methodologies in chemical process development.
• Contribute to the design and specification of process equipment for pilot and commercial plants.
• Ensure all development activities are conducted in accordance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Maintain detailed records of experimental procedures, results, and observations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in chemical process development or R&D.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting experiments, and analyzing results.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and pilot plant operations.
• Knowledge of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively in a remote setting.
• Experience with statistical analysis and design of experiments (DOE) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conferences and training.
• Access to cutting-edge research and development resources.
• A supportive and innovative remote work environment.
• Potential for career growth into senior R&D or process engineering roles.