Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Equity option package

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer for a fully remote role based out of Centurion, Gauteng. You will spearhead the conceptualization, design, and piloting of novel chemical processes, translating lab discoveries into scalable manufacturing solutions.

We seek a visionary leader with a PhD/masters in chemical engineering, 7+ years in process development, and proven ability to manage R&D projects and remote teams.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical process development, with a significant portion focused on R&D.
• Proven experience in scaling up chemical processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial scales.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, separation technologies, and process modeling.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of successfully delivering complex projects.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience managing technical teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, adapted for remote collaboration.
• Proficiency in relevant simulation and data analysis software.
• Must be located within a commutable distance to Centurion, Gauteng, ZA for occasional site visits, but the role is primarily remote.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new chemical processes from bench scale through pilot and commercial scale.
• Design and execute experiments to optimize reaction conditions, separation techniques, and overall process efficiency.
• Develop mass and energy balances, P&IDs, and process equipment specifications for new and existing processes.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and develop safety protocols for novel chemical processes.
• Manage R&D projects, including scope definition, resource allocation, timelines, and budget.
• Mentor and guide a team of chemical engineers and scientists in a remote setting.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality assurance, and commercial teams to ensure successful process transfer and implementation.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and scientific literature relevant to process development.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and patent disclosures.

Skills

Leadership

R&D Management

Remote collaboration

Process modeling

Reaction engineering

Separation technologies

Project management

Communication

Data analysis software

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in advanced materials science, is actively seeking a highly experienced Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer to spearhead their remote innovation efforts. This is a crucial, fully remote role based out of Centurion, Gauteng, ZA , where you will lead the conceptualization, design, and piloting of novel chemical processes. Your expertise will be vital in translating laboratory discoveries into scalable, commercially viable manufacturing solutions. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, a strong aptitude for R&D project management, and a proven ability to guide teams in a virtual setting. This position demands exceptional technical acumen, strategic thinking, and the capability to foster innovation remotely. If you are passionate about driving breakthrough chemical technologies and thrive in an independent, remote work environment, this opportunity is tailored for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new chemical processes from bench scale through pilot and commercial scale.
• Design and execute experiments to optimize reaction conditions, separation techniques, and overall process efficiency.
• Develop mass and energy balances, P&IDs, and process equipment specifications for new and existing processes.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and develop safety protocols for novel chemical processes.
• Manage R&D projects, including scope definition, resource allocation, timelines, and budget.
• Mentor and guide a team of chemical engineers and scientists in a remote setting.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality assurance, and commercial teams to ensure successful process transfer and implementation.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and scientific literature relevant to process development.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and patent disclosures.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical process development, with a significant portion focused on R&D.
• Proven experience in scaling up chemical processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial scales.
• Expertise in reaction engineering, separation technologies, and process modeling.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of successfully delivering complex projects.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience managing technical teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, adapted for remote collaboration.
• Proficiency in relevant simulation and data analysis software.
• Must be located within a commutable distance to Centurion, Gauteng, ZA for occasional site visits, but the role is primarily remote.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, bonus structure, and an attractive equity option package.
• Employees enjoy comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning support, and generous paid time off.
• This role provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, participation in international conferences, and the chance to lead pioneering research.
• Experience the flexibility of a remote-first culture combined with the satisfaction of driving significant technological advancements.