Lead Process Development Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Soweto; Híbrido; ZAR 900.000 - 1.400.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Remote-first environment

Executive-level salary & bonus

Professional growth opportunities

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Development Engineer for a fully remote role based in South Africa. You will lead development, scale-up and optimization of advanced chemical processes for next-generation materials, guiding projects from concept through commercialization in a remote-capable team.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and 10+ years in progressive process development, with strong leadership, design, and communication skills to drive technology transfer in virtual

Formación

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years in chemical process development, scale-up and optimization.
• Proven leadership of complex R&D projects.
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Knowledge of stage-gate development processes.

Responsabilidades

• Lead development and scale-up of novel chemical processes from lab to pilot and commercial scale.
• Develop detailed process designs including PFDs and P&IDs, mass and energy balances.
• Conduct process simulations to optimize performance and identify issues.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and technology transfer.
• Mentor junior engineers and manage remote projects.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Project management

Strategic thinking

Remote collaboration

Educación

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Herramientas

Aspen Plus

COMSOL

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious research and development organization focused on advanced materials, is seeking a highly accomplished Lead Process Development Engineer for a fully remote position. This is a unique opportunity to lead critical projects from conceptualization to commercialization, working from anywhere within South Africa. You will spearhead the development, scale-up, and optimization of innovative chemical processes for next-generation materials. This role requires exceptional leadership, deep technical expertise in process engineering, and a proven ability to manage complex R&D initiatives autonomously. You will collaborate virtually with a world-class team of scientists and engineers, translating laboratory breakthroughs into robust manufacturing solutions. We are looking for a visionary leader who thrives in a remote-first environment, possessing strong strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and a passion for driving technological innovation. Your contributions will be pivotal in advancing our client's position at the forefront of materials science, shaping the future of the industry through groundbreaking process development. The emphasis is on strategic direction and independent execution within a virtual framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and scale-up of novel chemical processes for advanced materials from lab to pilot and commercial scale.
• Develop detailed process designs, including PFDs, P&IDs, mass and energy balances.
• Conduct rigorous process simulations and modeling to optimize performance and identify potential issues.
• Oversee pilot plant operations, troubleshoot scale-up challenges, and ensure successful technology transfer.
• Lead process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure all designs meet stringent safety and environmental standards.
• Collaborate virtually with R&D, product development, and manufacturing teams to ensure project success.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, project proposals, and technical packages for review and approval.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and equipment for process improvement.
• Mentor and guide junior process development engineers, fostering technical excellence.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively in a remote setting.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing complex R&D projects.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of advanced materials science and chemical manufacturing principles.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire teams in a fully remote, collaborative environment.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting technical information.
• Familiarity with stage-gate development processes and stage-gate reviews.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and bonus structure.
• Fully remote position offering maximum flexibility and autonomy.
• Opportunity to lead groundbreaking projects in advanced materials development.
• Access to state-of-the-art virtual resources and collaborative tools.
• Extensive opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Work within a globally recognized R&D organization at the cutting edge of innovation.