Lead Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonuses

Health insurance

Paid vacation and sick leave

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer for its Rustenburg, North West facility. The role requires steering process design, optimization, and scale-up in a chemical manufacturing context.

You will lead engineering teams, drive safety, and deliver performance improvements while coordinating with R&D, operations, and maintenance. The ideal candidate has 8+ years in chemical process design and strong leadership capabilities, with expertise in Aspen Plus/HYSYS and safety regulatory

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in chemical process design and operation.
• Expertise in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer.
• Proven experience leading projects and cross-functional teams.
• Excellent knowledge of safety regulations and environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes and optimizations.
• Conduct process modeling, simulations, and feasibility studies for improvements.
• Oversee PHAs and ensure regulatory safety compliance.
• Develop and manage P&IDs, equipment specs, and operating procedures.
• Troubleshoot complex issues, identify root causes, and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance for technology transfer.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide technical development.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Stay updated on best practices and regulatory changes.
• Champion sustainability, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

Skills

Process design

Process optimization

Team leadership

Safety compliance

Project management

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the chemical manufacturing industry, is seeking an accomplished Lead Chemical Engineer to join their advanced operations team in Rustenburg, North West. This senior position requires extensive experience in process design, optimization, and scale-up within a chemical production environment. You will play a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring product quality, and implementing innovative engineering solutions. The successful candidate will lead a team of engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety. This role is based at our modern facility in Rustenburg, North West, and offers the chance to drive significant advancements in chemical process engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes and the optimization of existing ones.
• Conduct detailed process modeling, simulation, and feasibility studies to evaluate potential improvements and new technologies.
• Oversee process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement necessary safety measures to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Develop and manage process P&IDs, equipment specifications, and operational procedures.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and improve yield.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and effective plant operation.
• Mentor and guide junior chemical engineers, fostering their technical development and professional growth.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for process engineering initiatives.
• Stay updated on industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes impacting chemical manufacturing.
• Champion initiatives focused on sustainability, waste reduction, and energy efficiency within the plant operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in chemical process design, optimization, and operation, preferably in a manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mass transfer principles.
• Proven experience in leading engineering projects and managing cross-functional teams.
• Excellent knowledge of safety regulations and environmental compliance in the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process control strategies and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Eligibility to work in Rustenburg, North West, and a commitment to operational excellence and safety.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with annual performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous vacation and sick leave policies.
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
• Access to advanced engineering tools and technologies.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment with a focus on innovation and safety.
• Retirement savings plan and life insurance.
• Company-sponsored training and professional certification programs.