Chemical Process Engineer - Specialty Chemicals Manufacturing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA, is seeking a Chemical Process Engineer to join a leading specialty chemicals manufacturer. The role blends on-site process optimization with remote work, focusing on improving efficiency, safety, and product quality.

You will analyze plant data, develop SOPs, support scale-up with R&D, ensure HSE compliance, and contribute to cost reduction and waste minimization. A minimum of 6 years in chemical process engineering is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in chemical process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Experience with process control systems and data acquisition is preferred.
• Solid understanding of safety management systems and environmental regulations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to collaborate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant operational data to identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement sustainable solutions to minimize downtime and product variability.
• Develop and refine process operating procedures (SOPs) and batch records.
• Collaborate with R&D and production teams on scale-up activities and new product introductions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implement recommendations.
• Assist in the validation of new equipment and process modifications.
• Prepare technical reports detailing process performance, investigations, and improvement projects.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives and waste minimization efforts.

Skills

Process engineering experience

Reaction engineering

Separation processes

Unit operations

Process control systems

Data acquisition

Safety management

Environmental regulations

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Process simulation software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals, is seeking a skilled Chemical Process Engineer to join their established team in **Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**. This role is integral to the day-to-day operations and continuous improvement of their manufacturing facilities. You will focus on optimizing processes, ensuring product quality, enhancing safety, and supporting the introduction of new chemical products. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, practical experience in chemical manufacturing, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This hybrid role balances essential on-site operational engagement with the flexibility of remote work, allowing for effective contribution and work-life integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant operational data to identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement sustainable solutions to minimize downtime and product variability.
• Develop and refine process operating procedures (SOPs) and batch records.
• Collaborate with R&D and production teams on scale-up activities and new product introductions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implement recommendations.
• Assist in the validation of new equipment and process modifications.
• Prepare technical reports detailing process performance, investigations, and improvement projects.
• Contribute to cost reduction initiatives and waste minimization efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry, preferably in specialty chemicals.
• Strong understanding of reaction engineering, separation processes, and unit operations.
• Experience with process control systems and data acquisition.
• Knowledge of safety management systems and environmental regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Ability to adapt to a hybrid work model, balancing remote tasks with on-site requirements.
• Experience with process simulation software is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, performance bonuses, and excellent opportunities for professional growth and career development. You will be joining a reputable company committed to innovation and operational excellence in **Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in specialty chemical manufacturing.