Lead Process Chemist - Pharmaceutical Development

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Chemist in Tembisa to spearhead pharmaceutical development initiatives, optimizing chemical processes for scalable, safe API production. You will design robust synthetic routes, validate analytical methods, and drive technology transfer, ensuring compliance with cGMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory standards.

The role leads a chemistry team, requires strong project management and collaboration with formulation, analytical, and manufacturing groups to

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of progressive process chemistry experience in pharma.
• Strong knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry, kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Experience with process validation, scale-up, and tech transfer; cGMP.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up chemical processes for APIs.
• Design and validate analytical methods for raw materials, intermediates, and final drug products.
• Lead troubleshooting for manufacturing process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure all development activities comply with cGMP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with formulation, analytical, and manufacturing teams for seamless tech transfer.
• Manage and mentor a team of process chemists and foster continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Problem-Solving

cGMP Knowledge

Analytical Thinking

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

MSc in Organic Chemistry/Process Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process Validation

Technology Transfer

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Lead Process Chemist to spearhead their Pharmaceutical Development initiatives in Tembisa . This senior role is critical for optimizing chemical processes, ensuring the scalability, safety, and efficiency of drug manufacturing. You will be instrumental in the development and implementation of robust synthetic routes, analytical methods, and quality control procedures. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of organic chemistry, process engineering, and regulatory requirements within the pharmaceutical industry. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to lead a team, drive innovation in chemical process development, and contribute significantly to bringing life-changing medicines to market in a highly regulated and collaborative setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up chemical processes for the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
• Design and validate analytical methods for raw materials, intermediates, and final drug products.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for manufacturing process issues, implementing effective corrective actions.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with cGMP, ICH guidelines, and other regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with formulation scientists, analytical chemists, and manufacturing personnel to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Manage and mentor a team of process chemists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process chemistry within the pharmaceutical industry .
• Extensive knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Proven experience with process validation, scale-up, and technology transfer.
• In-depth understanding of cGMP regulations and quality assurance principles.
• Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package and performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, retirement, and life insurance benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• State-of-the-art research and manufacturing facilities.
• A collaborative work environment focused on innovation and patient well-being.