Lead Chemical Engineer - Remote Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 2,001,000 - 3,001,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development budget

Remote work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer to direct remote, high-impact projects in advanced chemical processes. You will mentor a distributed team of engineers, drive process design, scale-up, and optimization while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance across international markets.

You will leverage Aspen Plus or HYSYS, develop PFDs/P&IDs, and deliver clear technical reports. This remote role rewards initiative, collaboration across time zones, and a strong track record in

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in chemical process design and optimization.
• Proven ability to lead remote engineering teams.
• Expertise with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong knowledge of reaction engineering, separations, and thermodynamics.
• Excellent written and spoken communication for virtual collaboration.
• Experience with international regulatory compliance desirable.
• Commitment to safety and process safety management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced chemical processes.
• Provide technical leadership to a remote team of chemical engineers.
• Analyze, simulate, and optimize processes to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Manage project lifecycles from concept to commissioning.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and QA to integrate processes.
• Develop and maintain PFDs, P&IDs, and operating manuals.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and regulatory standards.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices in chemical engineering.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals for stakeholders.
• Facilitate virtual HAZOPs and risk assessments for new/existing processes.

Skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Independent work

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

PFD/P&ID drafting

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Chemical Engineer to join their innovative team in a fully remote capacity. This is a unique opportunity to shape and lead critical chemical engineering projects from anywhere in the world, contributing to the development of groundbreaking materials and processes. You will be responsible for overseeing complex engineering tasks, mentoring junior team members, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety in all aspects of your work. As a remote-first organization, we provide the tools, technology, and support necessary for you to excel in your role, regardless of your physical location. This position is ideal for a self-starter who thrives in an autonomous environment and is passionate about driving advancements in chemical engineering. Join us and make a significant impact on our client’s future success, contributing to a culture of innovation and excellence that transcends geographical boundaries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced chemical processes and technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical engineers working remotely.
• Conduct in-depth process analysis, simulation, and optimization to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Manage and oversee project lifecycles, from conceptualization to commissioning, ensuring timely and budget-compliant delivery.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance departments to integrate new processes and products.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive process documentation, including P&IDs, PFDs, and operating manuals.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards globally.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in chemical engineering.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals for internal and external stakeholders.
• Facilitate virtual HAZOPs and risk assessment sessions for new and existing processes.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical process design, scale-up, and optimization.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering projects and managing teams, preferably in a remote setting.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and data analysis tools.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, separation processes, and thermodynamics.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a strong aptitude for innovation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adapted for a virtual environment.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and deliver results in a remote work setting.
• Experience with regulatory compliance in international markets is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive remote benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and a significant professional development budget. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of a fully remote role with opportunities for international collaboration and impact. This is a chance to be at the forefront of chemical engineering innovation, working with a supportive and forward-thinking team.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous retirement savings plan
• Significant professional development budget