Chemical Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chemical Process Development Engineer for a remote-first role focused on designing, testing, and optimizing chemical processes from laboratory scale through pilot plant to potential commercialization.

You will collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to transfer technologies, analyze process data, and document procedures, while prioritizing safety, scalability, and remote collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency with process simulation software and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation principles.
• Experience with laboratory and pilot plant equipment operation and data acquisition.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive, results-oriented approach, well-suited for remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes and reaction conditions.
• Scale up processes from laboratory benchtop to pilot plant scale, ensuring reproducibility and safety.
• Analyze process data using statistical methods and modeling software to identify key parameters and improvements.
• Develop detailed process documentation, including experimental procedures, batch records, and technical reports.
• Troubleshoot issues encountered during process development and scale-up activities.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful technology transfer and implementation.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Process simulation

Statistical analysis

Lab & pilot ops

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Statistical analysis tools

Lab & pilot equipment operation

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a skilled Chemical Process Development Engineer to join their pioneering, remote-first organization. This role is dedicated to the innovation and enhancement of chemical processes, from laboratory scale through to pilot and potential commercialization. You will be instrumental in designing, testing, and optimizing new chemical pathways and technologies, ensuring they are efficient, safe, and scalable. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge developments in the chemical industry, with the full flexibility of remote work. You will collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers, driving forward new product initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes and reaction conditions.
• Scale up processes from laboratory benchtop to pilot plant scale, ensuring reproducibility and safety.
• Analyze process data using statistical methods and modeling software to identify key parameters and improvements.
• Develop detailed process documentation, including experimental procedures, batch records, and technical reports.
• Troubleshoot issues encountered during process development and scale-up activities.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful technology transfer and implementation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency with process simulation software and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation principles.
• Experience with laboratory and pilot plant equipment operation and data acquisition.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive, results-oriented approach, well-suited for remote collaboration.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for project-specific bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Support for professional development, including advanced courses and certifications.
• A dynamic and innovative remote work environment that fosters collaboration and creativity.