Lead Chemical Engineer - Polymerization

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Competitive compensation

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

International training

Laboratory facilities access

Paid time off

Wellness program

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in polymerization to join their Cape Town team. You will spearhead development, optimization, and scale-up of polymerization processes, drive research initiatives, and lead engineers toward commercialization of new polymer products.

The role demands deep polymer chemistry expertise, reactor design experience, strong leadership, and a track record of delivering complex projects in an industrial setting, with relocation support to Cape

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Engineering.
• 10+ years of relevant industry experience in polymerization processes.
• Experience leading technical teams and managing complex projects.
• In-depth knowledge of polymerization techniques and reactor design.
• Proficiency in process modeling and simulation tools for polymerization.
• Strong polymer characterization knowledge.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with process safety and HAZOP studies.
• Familiarity with GMP is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D, development, and commercialization of novel polymerization processes.
• Oversee design, scale-up, and optimization for polymer manufacturing.
• Manage and mentor a team of chemical and process engineers.
• Develop experimental plans to study kinetics, mechanism, and process variables.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing to hit milestones.
• Analyze process data, troubleshoot, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare technical documentation including process descriptions, P&IDs, and SOPs.
• Stay updated on advancements in polymerization technology and chemical engineering.
• Present findings to senior management and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Education

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

Tools

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials manufacturing, is seeking an experienced and innovative Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in Polymerization to join their pioneering team in Cape Town, Western Cape . This critical role involves spearheading the development, optimization, and scale-up of cutting-edge polymerization processes. You will be responsible for driving research initiatives, leading a team of talented engineers, and ensuring the successful commercialization of new polymer products. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in polymer chemistry, reaction engineering, and process scale-up, coupled with exceptional leadership qualities. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on product innovation and operational excellence within a thriving industrial hub. We are committed to fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and technological advancement, making this an ideal environment for a driven professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and commercialization of novel polymerization processes.
• Oversee process design, scale-up, and optimization for polymer manufacturing.
• Manage and mentor a team of chemical and process engineers, fostering their technical and professional growth.
• Develop and execute experimental plans to investigate reaction kinetics, mechanism, and process variables.
• Ensure all processes comply with stringent safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing teams to achieve project milestones.
• Analyze process data, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including process descriptions, P&IDs, and operating procedures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymerization technology and chemical engineering principles.
• Present findings and project updates to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Engineering.
• 10+ years of relevant industry experience, with a strong focus on polymerization processes.
• Demonstrated experience in leading technical teams and managing complex projects.
• In-depth knowledge of various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, ionic, condensation) and reactor design.
• Proficiency in process modeling and simulation tools relevant to polymerization.
• Strong understanding of polymer characterization techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and bring new technologies to market.
• Experience with process safety and HAZOP studies is essential.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous retirement fund contributions.
• Extensive opportunities for career advancement and international training.
• Relocation assistance provided for successful candidates moving to Cape Town, Western Cape .
• Access to world-class laboratory and pilot plant facilities.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• A vibrant and dynamic work culture.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.