Lead Chemical Engineer - Production Optimization

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible remote working

Leadership in optimization projects

Work with industry leader

Continuous learning opportunities

Innovation in chemical processes

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer in Cape Town for production optimization. The role is primarily remote within South Africa with occasional site visits. You will lead projects to boost efficiency, yield, and sustainability, using data analytics and APC/SPC to drive performance.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in chemical manufacturing, a strong background in process simulation, and leadership experience. Pr.Eng desirable, SHE knowledge essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering from a reputable university.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in chemical manufacturing, with emphasis on process optimization.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation, data analysis and statistical modeling.
• Professional registration (e.g., Pr.Eng) is desirable.
• Knowledge of SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment) regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute projects to improve efficiency, throughput, and yield of chemical production.
• Analyze production data, identify bottlenecks, and develop data-driven solutions for optimization.
• Design, implement, and validate process modifications and upgrades.
• Utilize APC and SPC techniques to drive performance.
• Collaborate with plant operations, R&D, and engineering teams to ensure seamless implementation.
• Develop and deliver training on new processes and optimization techniques.
• Conduct root cause analysis for deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Mentor junior chemical engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Ensure all solutions meet safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

APC

SPC

Leadership

Project management

Remote collaboration

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

APC

SPC

Process simulation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the specialty chemicals sector, is seeking an accomplished Lead Chemical Engineer focused on Production Optimization. This role, based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape , is primarily remote, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere within South Africa , with occasional site visits as needed. You will spearhead initiatives to enhance the efficiency, yield, and sustainability of our chemical manufacturing processes. This includes diagnosing operational issues, implementing process improvements, and leveraging advanced data analytics to drive performance. The ideal candidate possesses a deep technical understanding of chemical processes, significant experience in process improvement methodologies, and strong leadership capabilities. We are looking for an innovative problem-solver who can translate complex data into actionable strategies that deliver measurable results. This is a high-impact role for a seasoned chemical engineer looking to shape the future of chemical production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute projects focused on improving the efficiency, throughput, and yield of chemical production processes.
• Analyze production data, identify bottlenecks, and develop data-driven solutions for optimization.
• Design, implement, and validate process modifications and upgrades.
• Utilize advanced process control (APC) strategies and statistical process control (SPC) techniques.
• Collaborate with plant operations, R&D, and engineering teams to ensure seamless implementation of improvements.
• Develop and deliver training on new processes and optimization techniques to operational staff.
• Conduct root cause analysis for production deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in chemical engineering and production optimization.
• Mentor junior chemical engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Ensure all implemented solutions adhere to safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering from a reputable university.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in chemical manufacturing, with a strong focus on process optimization and production improvement.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation, data analysis, and statistical modeling.
• Proven experience with advanced process control (APC) and statistical process control (SPC).
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective leadership and project management capabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience working effectively in a remote environment, utilizing virtual collaboration tools.
• Knowledge of SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment) regulations.
• Professional registration (e.g., Pr.Eng) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Flexible remote working arrangement, promoting excellent work-life balance.
• Opportunity to lead significant optimization projects with tangible impact on profitability and sustainability.
• Work with a respected leader in the specialty chemicals industry.
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
• Contribution to innovation in chemical manufacturing processes.