Junior Chemical Engineer - Process Development

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid internship opportunity

Mentorship and training from senior/oh

Exposure to diverse process tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Chemical Engineer for a dynamic chemical manufacturing client in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role offers exposure to design, testing, and optimization of chemical processes, working under senior engineers to gain practical skills and industry insight.

The ideal candidate is a recent chemical engineering graduate or early-career professional with strong fundamentals in thermodynamics, mass transfer, and reaction kinetics, plus excellent analytical and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Recent graduate or up to 2 years of relevant experience.
• Strong fundamentals in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mass transfer, and reaction kinetics.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in the design, development, and testing of new chemical processes.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials under supervision.
• Collect, organize, and analyze process data using relevant software tools.
• Prepare technical reports, summaries, and documentation for process development activities.
• Support troubleshooting of existing processes and implement minor optimization adjustments.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper calibration and functioning.
• Participate in safety reviews and ensure adherence to all safety protocols in the lab and plant.
• Collaborate with team members on various process improvement projects.
• Assist in the preparation of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and equipment specifications.
• Stay updated with relevant chemical engineering principles and technologies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Process data analysis

Microsoft Office

Written and verbal communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic chemical manufacturing company, is seeking a motivated and eager Junior Chemical Engineer to join their Process Development team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional to gain hands‑on experience in a challenging and rewarding environment. You will work under the guidance of senior engineers to support the design, testing, and optimization of chemical processes. This role involves assisting with experimental procedures, data analysis, and the documentation of process improvements. The ideal candidate possesses a strong academic foundation in chemical engineering, a keen analytical mind, and a proactive attitude towards learning and contributing. We are committed to nurturing talent and providing a solid platform for career growth within the chemical industry. This position is crucial for supporting our ongoing innovation and operational excellence initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in the design, development, and testing of new chemical processes.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot plant trials under supervision.
• Collect, organize, and analyze process data using relevant software tools.
• Prepare technical reports, summaries, and documentation for process development activities.
• Support troubleshooting of existing processes and implement minor optimization adjustments.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper calibration and functioning.
• Participate in safety reviews and ensure adherence to all safety protocols in the lab and plant.
• Collaborate with team members on various process improvement projects.
• Assist in the preparation of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and equipment specifications.
• Stay updated with relevant chemical engineering principles and technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Recent graduate or up to 2 years of relevant experience in chemical engineering.
• Strong understanding of fundamental chemical engineering principles (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mass transfer, reaction kinetics).
• Familiarity with process simulation software is an advantage.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Understanding and commitment to workplace safety standards.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa and available to work on‑site in Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

• Paid internship opportunity providing valuable industry experience.
• Exposure to diverse chemical manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Mentorship and training from experienced chemical engineers.
• Opportunity for career advancement within the company based on performance.
• Work within a supportive and collaborative team environment in Port Elizabeth .
• Contribute to real-world process development projects.