Lead Chemical Engineer - Process Development (Remote)

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Long-term incentive plan

Professional growth opportunities

Flexible working schedule

Work-life balance and global teamwork

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Chemical Engineer to drive process development and scale-up from bench to commercial production in a remote-first setup. You will lead cross-disciplinary teams, design PFDs/P&IDs, and ensure safe, cost-efficient processes across global manufacturing partners.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MS in Chemical Engineering, 10+ years in process development, strong SPC/DOE and process simulation skills (Aspen Plus, Chemcad), and proven leadership in remote,

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years hands-on experience in process development, scale-up, and commercialization of chemical processes.
• Proven expertise in statistical process control (SPC) and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Extensive experience with process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Chemcad).
• Strong knowledge of unit operations, reaction kinetics, and process safety principles.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing projects and teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and proactively in a remote, international team environment.
• Experience in the pharmaceutical or specialty chemicals sector is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and scale-up of new chemical processes, from conceptualization to commercial implementation.
• Develop detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and mass/energy balances.
• Oversee piloto plant operations and data analysis to validate process designs and identify critical operating parameters.
• Conduct thorough hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies and risk assessments for new and existing processes.
• Select and specify process equipment, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering disciplines, and manufacturing to ensure smooth technology transfer.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical engineers and technicians.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively for process development initiatives.
• Author and review technical documentation, including proposals, reports, and design specifications.

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead their process development initiatives. This is a pivotal, fully remote role requiring a leader with deep expertise in conceptualizing, designing, and scaling up novel chemical processes. You will be responsible for driving innovation from bench-scale to commercial production, working closely with research scientists and manufacturing teams. The successful candidate will excel in translating laboratory findings into robust, cost-effective, and sustainable industrial processes. As a remote-first organization, we provide the tools and support necessary for you to thrive, collaborating seamlessly with colleagues across different time zones. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of chemical manufacturing, contributing to cutting-edge projects that address global challenges. If you are a passionate innovator with a strong background in chemical engineering and a desire to lead transformative projects, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and scale-up of new chemical processes, from conceptualization to commercial implementation.
• Develop detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and mass/energy balances.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and data analysis to validate process designs and identify critical operating parameters.
• Conduct thorough hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies and risk assessments for new and existing processes.
• Select and specify process equipment, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering disciplines, and manufacturing to ensure smooth technology transfer.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical engineers and technicians.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively for process development initiatives.
• Author and review technical documentation, including proposals, reports, and design specifications.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years of hands-on experience in process development, scale-up, and commercialization of chemical processes.
• Proven expertise in statistical process control (SPC) and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Extensive experience with process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Chemcad).
• Strong knowledge of unit operations, reaction kinetics, and process safety principles.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing projects and teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and proactively in a remote, international team environment.
• Experience in the pharmaceutical or specialty chemicals sector is a plus.

Benefits

This remote leadership position comes with a highly competitive salary and bonus structure. Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, an attractive long-term incentive plan, and significant opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Our client is committed to work-life balance and offers a flexible working schedule. You will have the chance to work on groundbreaking projects and collaborate with a diverse, global team. Professional development support, including attendance at leading industry conferences, is provided. Join a company that values innovation, collaboration, and the well-being of its employees, offering a rewarding career path in chemical engineering.