Lead Chemical Engineer - Process Development

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Chemical Engineer focused on Process Development to join our innovation hub in Sandton. This senior role leads the development and optimization of novel chemical processes from bench to pilot and commercial readiness, driving technical aspects of new product introductions.

The ideal candidate will bring 8+ years in chemical process development, strong leadership, and expertise in process simulation and data analysis, with a proven track record of

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering (MS or PhD).
• 8+ years in chemical process development and scale-up.
• Proven track record of taking processes from lab to production.
• Expertise in process simulation, modeling, and data analysis.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams to develop and optimize new chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes.
• Design and execute experiments to assess feasibility, safety, and scalability.
• Develop detailed PFDs, mass/energy balances, and equipment specs.
• Manage pilot plant operations and address scale-up challenges.
• Conduct PHAs and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with R&D teams for technology transfer.
• Drive process intensification and sustainability initiatives.
• Mentor junior engineers and report findings to stakeholders.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Process simulation

Data analysis

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

MATLAB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials and chemical synthesis, is seeking an experienced Lead Chemical Engineer focused on Process Development to join their innovation hub in Sandton . This senior role involves leading the development and optimization of novel chemical processes from bench scale through to pilot and commercial readiness. You will be instrumental in driving the technical aspects of new product introductions and enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of existing manufacturing operations within Gauteng . The ideal candidate possesses a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in scaling complex chemical processes, coupled with excellent leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams in the development and optimization of new chemical synthesis routes and manufacturing processes.
• Design and execute experiments to assess process feasibility, safety, and scalability.
• Develop detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), mass/energy balances, and equipment specifications.
• Manage pilot plant operations and troubleshoot scale-up challenges.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists and engineers to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Evaluate and implement process intensification and sustainability initiatives.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical growth of the team.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and present findings to stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and quality regulations.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical process development and scale-up, preferably in advanced materials or fine chemicals.
• Demonstrated success in taking chemical processes from lab to production scale.
• Expertise in process simulation, modeling, and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of reaction engineering, separation processes, and process safety.
• Proven leadership and project management capabilities.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote collaboration.
• Familiarity with global regulatory landscapes relevant to chemical manufacturing.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and performance-based incentives.
• We provide exceptional opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, conference attendance, and leadership programs.
• The stimulating work environment in Sandton , combined with a strong focus on innovation and work-life balance, makes this an ideal career move.