Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement fund

Paid annual leave and public holidays

Growth and leadership development

Access to state-of-the-art lab and pil

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer for a pioneering specialty chemicals group in George, Western Cape. The role drives concept-to-commercialization of new chemical processes, including bench-scale to pilot plant scale-up and technology transfer, with hands-on leadership.

You will lead process research, develop PFDs/P&IDs, run simulations to optimize yield, energy use, and safety, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring SHE compliance and timely project

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 7 years' experience in chemical process development, scale-up and optimization.
• Proven track record of translating concepts to commercial processes.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of new chemical processes from concept through commercialization.
• Conduct rigorous process research, experiments, and scale-up in lab and pilot plant settings.
• Develop detailed flow diagrams (PFDs), piping & instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Perform process simulations and modeling to optimize yield, energy efficiency, and safety.
• Manage process development projects, including timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Evaluate and implement new processing technologies and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with SHE regulations and mentor junior engineers.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in specialty chemicals, is seeking a visionary Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer to spearhead innovation at their facility in George, Western Cape . This critical role involves the conceptualization, design, and scale-up of novel chemical processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant and ultimately to full commercial production. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical reactions, separation techniques, and process intensification, coupled with strong leadership abilities. You will be instrumental in driving the company's technological advancements and maintaining its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. This position is based in George and requires full-time on-site presence to ensure seamless collaboration and hands-on oversight.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new chemical processes, from initial concept through to commercialization.
• Conduct rigorous process research, experimentation, and scale-up studies in laboratory and pilot plant settings.
• Develop detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Perform process simulations and modeling to optimize yield, energy efficiency, and safety.
• Manage process development projects, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, engineering, and operations teams to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Evaluate and implement new processing technologies and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technical staff involved in process development activities.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Demonstrated success in bringing new chemical processes from concept to commercial reality.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Pro/II) and data analysis tools.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Excellent understanding of process safety principles and risk assessment methodologies.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex technical data and provide actionable insights.Effective communication and presentation skills for technical and non-technical audiences.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous contribution to retirement fund.
• Paid annual leave and public holidays.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities in George .
• Be part of a forward-thinking company shaping the future of the chemical industry.