Chemical Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng seeks a skilled Chemical Process Development Engineer to lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of chemical processes from laboratory to commercial scale. The role emphasizes safe, sustainable design and close collaboration with R&D and manufacturing teams at our near-Sandton facilities.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in process simulation (Aspen Plus, ChemCAD), pilot plant operations, and experience turning innovative ideas into

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Proven experience in designing and operating pilot plants.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) for new and existing processes.
• Perform process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify optimal operating conditions.
• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during scale-up and pilot plant trials.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for new process technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, engineers, and manufacturing personnel to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with safety, health, and environmental standards.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and process designs thoroughly.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Process design

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative chemical solutions provider, is looking for a skilled Chemical Process Development Engineer for their operations in Sandton, Gauteng. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, facilitating focused remote work for analysis and reporting, alongside essential on-site collaboration at our research facilities and pilot plants near Sandton. The engineer will be responsible for the development, optimization, and scale-up of chemical processes from laboratory to commercial scale. You will play a key role in translating innovative ideas into commercially viable manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency, safety, and sustainability. This position requires a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, experimental design, and pilot plant operations. The ideal candidate is proactive, analytical, and passionate about bringing new chemical technologies to life.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) for new and existing processes.
• Perform process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify optimal operating conditions.
• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during scale-up and pilot plant trials.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for new process technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, engineers, and manufacturing personnel to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with safety, health, and environmental standards.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and process designs thoroughly.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Proven experience in designing and operating pilot plants.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a creative approach.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, essential for coordinating efforts between remote and on-site work near Sandton.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Commitment to safety and sustainable process design.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement planning, and opportunities for professional growth. The hybrid work model provides excellent flexibility, while the on-site component allows for hands-on involvement in process development at our Sandton area facilities. We encourage innovation and provide a supportive environment for engineers to thrive.