Junior Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng seeks a Junior Process Development Engineer to join our forward-thinking chemical manufacturing team. This entry-level role offers hands-on experience in designing and scaling chemical processes, working with senior engineers on pilot plant trials and process optimization.

The ideal candidate holds a BEng in Chemical Engineering, has 0–2 years of experience, strong data analysis and communication skills, and a keen desire to learn in a collaborative,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field required.
• 0–2 years' experience in process development or related role.
• Willing to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng; strong teamwork and eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Assist design and execution of laboratory experiments to evaluate chemical processes.
• Support scale-up from lab bench to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Collect and analyze experimental data; document findings.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs; collaborate with engineers.
• Conduct literature searches on relevant advancements.
• Troubleshoot process issues and identify root causes.
• Ensure adherence to GLP and laboratory safety procedures.
• Prepare materials and samples for pilot plant trials.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistics

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking chemical manufacturing company, is looking for an enthusiastic Junior Process Development Engineer to join their team based in Centurion, Gauteng . This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer eager to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges. You will work closely with senior engineers to develop and refine chemical processes, conduct laboratory experiments, and contribute to pilot plant trials. The role demands a keen interest in process innovation, meticulous attention to detail, and a strong desire to learn. You will be involved in all stages of process development, from conceptualization to scale-up, ensuring that new processes are efficient, safe, and cost-effective. This position offers invaluable hands-on experience and the chance to grow within a supportive and innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and execution of laboratory experiments to evaluate new chemical processes and materials.
• Support senior engineers in the development and scale-up of processes from lab bench to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Collect and analyze experimental data, documenting findings in clear and concise reports.
• Contribute to the development of process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform literature searches and stay updated on relevant scientific and engineering advancements.
• Assist in troubleshooting process issues and identifying root causes.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety procedures and good laboratory practices (GLP).
• Prepare materials and samples for pilot plant trials and assist with their execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field with a strong academic record.
• Zero to two years of experience in process development, research, or a related chemical engineering role.
• Basic understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and unit operations.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and experimental design is advantageous.
• Proficiency in data analysis and basic statistical methods.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Eagerness to learn and develop new skills.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Competitive starting salary and benefits package.
• Comprehensive on-the-job training and mentorship.
• Exposure to diverse chemical processes and technologies.
• Clear career progression pathways.
• Contribution to innovative product development.
• A collaborative and growth-oriented work culture.