Graduate Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Híbrido; ZAR 240.000 - 360.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Graduate training program

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work in Mossel Bay

Career growth opportunities

Access to cutting-edge technology

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Graduate Chemical Engineer for the Process Optimization team. You will apply chemical engineering principles to improve efficiency, safety and sustainability in our manufacturing operations, with on-site work and remote flexibility.

Gain hands-on experience with industrial-scale production, data analysis and process simulation while collaborating with plant operations, R&D and quality control.

Formación

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Strong foundation in thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a systematic approach.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for project needs or training.

Responsabilidades

• Analyze existing chemical processes to identify improvements in yield, energy use, and waste reduction.
• Develop and test process modifications and control strategies.
• Use process simulation software to model and optimize plant operations.
• Collect, analyze, and report process performance data.
• Collaborate with plant operators and engineers to implement changes and monitor results.
• Assist in troubleshooting process deviations and equipment issues.
• Support scale-up of new processes from lab to pilot plant and full production.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies participation and risk assessments.
• Document standard operating procedures and process flow diagrams.

Conocimientos

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Data analysis

Statistical software

Educación

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Herramientas

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a leading specialty chemicals manufacturer, is seeking a bright and motivated Graduate Chemical Engineer to join their Process Optimization team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to apply chemical engineering principles to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability within our client's manufacturing operations. Based in the scenic coastal town of **Mossel Bay, Western Cape**, you will work on diverse projects focused on optimizing existing processes and supporting the development of new ones. You will gain hands‑on experience with industrial‑scale chemical production, data analysis, and process simulation. This position requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, working collaboratively with plant operations, R&D, and quality control teams. The hybrid work model allows for a balance between on‑site collaborative work at the **Mossel Bay** facility and remote flexibility. We are looking for individuals with a strong aptitude for problem‑solving and a passion for innovation in chemical process engineering. This role is pivotal in driving operational excellence and contributing to the company's long‑term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing chemical processes to identify areas for improvement in yield, energy consumption, and waste reduction.
• Develop and test process modifications and control strategies.
• Utilize process simulation software to model and optimize plant operations.
• Collect and interpret process data, generating reports on performance and findings.
• Collaborate with plant operators and engineers to implement process changes and monitor their effectiveness.
• Assist in troubleshooting process deviations and equipment issues.
• Support the scale‑up of new processes from laboratory to pilot plant and full production.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations in all process‑related activities.
• Participate in hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies and risk assessments.
• Contribute to the documentation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process flow diagrams.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited university.
• A strong understanding of chemical engineering fundamentals, including thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a systematic approach.
• Good communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Familiarity with data analysis techniques and statistical software is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in both an on‑site industrial setting and remotely, as required by the hybrid model.
• A keen interest in process optimization, efficiency improvements, and sustainable manufacturing.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for project needs or training.
• Strong commitment to safety and environmental best practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a structured graduate training program designed for rapid learning and development.
• Successful candidates will receive a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• The hybrid work arrangement in **Mossel Bay** provides flexibility and work‑life balance.
• You will gain invaluable experience in the specialty chemicals industry, working on impactful process improvement projects.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the company are significant.
• Access to cutting‑edge technology and continuous learning platforms is provided.
• The company culture encourages innovation and collaboration.
• This role is an excellent launchpad for a career in chemical process engineering.