Lead Chemical Process Development Scientist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health benefits

Retirement plan

International collaboration

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Lead Chemical Process Development Scientist in Cape Town, South Africa. This global specialty chemicals leader seeks a senior scientific leader to translate lab discoveries into scalable, cost-effective manufacturing processes.

You will lead a team of scientists and engineers, guiding the full development lifecycle from concept to pilot-scale validation and technology transfer.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Chemical Engineering from a reputable institution.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in chemical process development with scale-up focus.
• Proven track record of bringing lab processes to plant scale.
• Expertise in organic synthesis, reaction kinetics, and process intensification.
• Strong knowledge of process safety, hazards analysis (HAZOP).
• Experience with process simulation and modeling software.
• Exceptional leadership, team and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of novel chemical processes for specialty manufacturing.
• Oversee laboratory and pilot plant operations for safe and efficient experiments.
• Develop and validate process models, perform scale-up calculations, define critical parameters.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments to evaluate viability and cost savings.
• Mentor a team of scientists and engineers and drive technology transfer.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing for seamless transfer.
• Prepare detailed reports, documentation, and patent applications.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in specialty chemicals, is looking for an experienced Lead Chemical Process Development Scientist to spearhead innovation and process improvement initiatives at their advanced research facility in Cape Town, Western Cape. This pivotal role involves translating laboratory discoveries into robust, scalable, and cost-effective manufacturing processes. You will lead a team of scientists and engineers, guiding them through the entire process development lifecycle, from initial concept to pilot-scale validation and technology transfer. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of reaction engineering, separation technologies, and process scale-up challenges, coupled with exceptional leadership qualities. This position is crucial for maintaining our client's competitive edge and driving the development of next-generation chemical products. This role requires a full-time, on-site presence to leverage our world-class laboratories and collaborative environment in Cape Town, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of novel chemical processes for specialty chemical manufacturing.
• Oversee laboratory and pilot plant operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and effective execution of experiments.
• Develop and validate process models, perform scale-up calculations, and define critical process parameters.
• Conduct thorough techno-economic assessments to evaluate the viability of new processes and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Manage and mentor a team of process development scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific rigor.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing departments to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Author detailed research reports, technical documentation, and patent applications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Present findings and project updates to senior management and cross-functional teams.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field from a highly reputable institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical process development, with a significant focus on scale-up and industrialization.
• Proven track record of successfully bringing new chemical processes from lab to plant scale.
• Expertise in organic synthesis, reaction kinetics, and process intensification techniques.
• Strong knowledge of process safety principles and hazard analysis (HAZOP).
• Experience with process simulation and modeling software.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and a passion for scientific discovery.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, comprehensive health benefits, a generous retirement plan, and significant opportunities for professional growth and international collaboration. Employees enjoy access to cutting-edge research equipment and a stimulating work environment designed to foster innovation. Join our esteemed team in Cape Town, Western Cape and contribute to shaping the future of specialty chemicals.