Lead Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Generous leave policy

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Chemical Engineer in George, Western Cape, ZA to drive process optimization, safety, and sustainability across manufacturing operations. The role combines in-office collaboration with remote flexibility in a hybrid setup, and you will mentor engineers while delivering high-impact improvements.

You will lead pilots, scale-up activities, develop control strategies, and partner with operations, maintenance and R&D to achieve operational excellence

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 8+ years of relevant experience focusing on process optimization.
• Proven track record of process improvements in a chemical manufacturing environment.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, ChemCAD).
• Knowledge of Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) and risk assessment techniques.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing chemical processes to identify efficiency improvements and cost reductions.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies.
• Lead troubleshooting and implement corrective actions.
• Design and oversee pilot studies and scale-up activities for new technologies.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and project proposals.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D teams to achieve operational excellence.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, promoting continuous learning.
• Manage process optimization projects from conception to completion within budget and schedule.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies to enhance process performance.

Skills

Leadership

Process optimization

Data analysis

Process simulation

Six Sigma

Lean Manufacturing

Communication

PSM knowledge

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in process optimization to join our esteemed team in George, Western Cape, ZA. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our manufacturing operations. You will be at the forefront of identifying and implementing innovative solutions to complex process challenges. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. As a lead engineer, you will mentor junior team members, drive project execution, and contribute significantly to strategic operational improvements. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring our processes meet and exceed industry standards, delivering tangible improvements in productivity and cost-effectiveness. We are looking for a visionary leader who can inspire change and deliver impactful results within our South African operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing chemical processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, yield, and cost reduction.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for operational issues and implement corrective actions.
• Design and oversee pilot studies and scale-up activities for new process technologies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation, and project proposals.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and research & development teams to achieve operational excellence.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and develop junior chemical engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
• Manage process optimization projects from conception to completion, ensuring timely and budget-conscious delivery.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies to enhance process performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant industry experience with a strong focus on process optimization.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing process improvements in a chemical manufacturing environment.
• Expertise in process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD).
• Strong knowledge of statistical analysis, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment techniques.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation for decision-making.
• Familiarity with industry‑specific regulations and best practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• We provide ample opportunities for professional development, including specialized training courses and attendance at industry conferences.
• Employees benefit from a generous leave policy and a supportive work environment that promotes work-life balance through our hybrid model.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology.

This role is based in George, Western Cape, ZA, with a flexible hybrid arrangement.