Lead Process Chemist — API Scale-Up in Cape Town

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus program

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Professional development

Cape Town location

Work-life balance

On-site amenities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Development Chemist in Cape Town to lead API synthesis development, scale-up and tech transfer in a cutting-edge pharmaceutical setting.

The role requires a PhD in Organic/Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 8+ years in process development with at least 2 years in a leadership role, and strong knowledge of cGMP and ICH guidelines. A data-driven, collaborative leader is essential for success.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive pharmaceutical process development experience; at least 2 years in a lead/supervisory role.
• Proven track record in developing and scaling up complex API synthesis routes.
• Strong knowledge of cGMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory submission processes.
• Experience with PAT and QbD principles is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of process chemists and engineers in API development and optimization.
• Design and execute experiments to optimize reaction conditions, purification strategies, and polymorph control.
• Develop scalable, robust manufacturing processes that meet regulatory requirements (cGMP).
• Oversee technology transfer from R&D to pilot plant and commercial manufacturing.
• Troubleshoot process issues during development, scale-up, and manufacturing.
• Author and review development reports, validation protocols, and regulatory filings.
• Collaborate with analytical development, formulation, and manufacturing teams.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements and industry trends in process development.
• Manage project timelines and resources to meet milestones.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance in all operations.

Skills

Process development

Leadership

Regulatory knowledge

cGMP

ICH guidelines

PAT

QbD

Technology transfer

Data analysis

Team management

Education

Ph.D. in Organic/Pharmaceutical Chemistry or related field

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Development Chemist in Cape Town to lead API synthesis development, scale-up and tech transfer in a cutting-edge pharmaceutical setting.

The role requires a PhD in Organic/Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 8+ years in process development with at least 2 years in a leadership role, and strong knowledge of cGMP and ICH guidelines. A data-driven, collaborative leader is essential for success.