Lead Chemical Engineer - Polymer Production

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Private medical insurance

Pension plan

Relocation assistance

International training

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead the polymer production division. You will oversee polymer synthesis, process optimization, and production scaling, driving innovation and operational excellence.

The role requires a PhD/ Master’s in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science with at least 10 years in chemical engineering, including leadership experience in polymer production.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science is required.
• 10+ years of chemical engineering experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role in polymer production.
• Extensive knowledge of polymerization techniques and large-scale production.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead polymer production engineering team and foster high-performance culture.
• Design, develop, and optimize polymer synthesis and manufacturing processes.
• Oversee pilot plant and full-scale operations for efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Implement advanced process control to improve yield and reduce waste.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic analyses for new products.
• Troubleshoot complex operations and implement effective solutions.
• Collaborate with R&D to scale up formulations from lab to production.
• Ensure compliance with EHS regulations and company policies.
• Manage capital expenditure for process upgrades and new equipment.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Process scale-up

Polymerization techniques

Process safety

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

SPC tools

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent leader in specialty chemical manufacturing, is seeking a talented and experienced Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead their polymer production division in **George, Western Cape**. This senior role involves overseeing all aspects of polymer synthesis, process optimization, and production scaling. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, ensuring operational excellence, and mentoring a team of skilled engineers and technicians. The position requires a deep understanding of polymer chemistry and extensive experience in large-scale chemical production environments. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of polymer development and manufacturing within a forward-thinking organization committed to sustainability and technological advancement. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a passion for chemical innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the polymer production engineering team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes for the synthesis and manufacturing of various polymers.
• Oversee pilot plant and full-scale production operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Implement advanced process control strategies to enhance yield, reduce waste, and improve product consistency.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic analyses for new product development and process improvements.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to scale up new polymer formulations from lab to commercial production.
• Ensure strict adherence to environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations and company policies.
• Manage capital expenditure projects related to process upgrades and new equipment installation.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership role focused on polymer production.
• Extensive knowledge of polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, anionic, cationic, condensation).
• Proven experience in process scale-up, optimization, and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of process safety principles, particularly relevant to polymer manufacturing.
• Familiarity with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistical process control (SPC) tools.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and drive innovation.
• Experience with regulatory compliance in the chemical industry.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive private medical insurance, a substantial pension plan, and relocation assistance if applicable.
• Opportunities for international training and professional development are abundant.
• The role is based in the picturesque coastal town of **George**, offering an exceptional lifestyle.
• Join a company that values its employees and invests in their growth and well-being.