Chemical Process Development Scientist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus structure

Medical plan

Retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Process Development Scientist in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will translate laboratory discoveries into scalable chemical processes for industrial application, designing and validating new synthesis routes with a focus on green chemistry.

This hybrid role mixes remote research with on-site lab work and collaborative teamwork. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with at least 5 years in process development, and is

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 5 years post-PhD experience in chemical process development.
• Strong design/conduct of complex organic synthesis experiments.
• Proficiency with analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, NMR, MS).
• Experience with process simulation software is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory-scale experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes.
• Investigate and implement novel synthesis pathways, focusing on efficiency, yield, and sustainability.
• Perform process characterization, kinetic studies, and reaction engineering analysis.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for monitoring process performance and product quality.
• Utilize process simulation tools to model and predict process behavior and scale-up parameters.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists, engineers, and pilot plant teams to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during development and pilot operations.
• Ensure all experimental procedures and processes comply with safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research summaries, and documentation for IP.
• Stay informed about advancements in chemical synthesis and green chemistry.

Skills

Organic synthesis design

Process development

Kinetics & thermodynamics

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCad

HPLC

GC

NMR

MS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in sustainable chemical solutions, is seeking a talented Chemical Process Development Scientist to contribute to their cutting-edge research and development efforts in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role is pivotal in translating laboratory discoveries into viable, scalable chemical processes for industrial application. You will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and validating new chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing methods, with a strong emphasis on green chemistry principles. The ideal candidate possesses a robust background in organic chemistry and chemical engineering, coupled with a passion for innovation and problem-solving. This hybrid position offers the chance to balance focused remote research with essential on-site laboratory work and team collaboration, providing a dynamic and productive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory-scale experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes.
• Investigate and implement novel synthesis pathways, focusing on efficiency, yield, and sustainability.
• Perform process characterization, kinetic studies, and reaction engineering analysis.
• Develop and validate analytical methods for monitoring process performance and product quality.
• Utilize process simulation tools to model and predict process behavior and scale-up parameters.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists, engineers, and pilot plant teams to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Troubleshoot process issues encountered during development and pilot operations.
• Ensure all experimental procedures and processes comply with safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research summaries, and documentation for intellectual property.
• Stay informed about the latest advancements in chemical synthesis, process development, and green chemistry.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with a strong process development component.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industrial experience in chemical process development.
• Proven expertise in designing and conducting complex organic synthesis experiments.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation technologies.
• Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation and analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, GC, NMR, MS).
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCad) is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of green chemistry principles and sustainable process design.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for technical documentation.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid team setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, attractive bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical and retirement plans.
• You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and opportunities for professional growth and development.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, allowing for efficient remote work combined with essential hands‑on laboratory experience in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to advancing sustainable chemical solutions and contributing to a greener future.