Lead Process Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health & wellness

Retirement plan

Hybrid work

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, seeks an experienced Lead Process Engineer to optimize and develop production processes across manufacturing lines. You will lead a team of process engineers, drive continuous improvement, and ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in process engineering, strong knowledge of process design, simulation (Aspen Plus/HYSYS), SPC, and Lean/Six Sigma, with proven leadership and collaboration across R&D, production, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with leadership or supervisory experience.
• Proven expertise in process design, optimization, and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistical analysis tools.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma is desirable.
• Excellent understanding of safety regulations and environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, implementation, and optimization of industrial manufacturing processes.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, yield, cost reduction, and waste minimization.
• Develop and implement SPC strategies to monitor and maintain process stability and quality.
• Oversee commissioning and validation of new equipment and process technologies.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and safety protocols.
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers and technicians, fostering continuous learning.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, production, QA, and maintenance.
• Stay current with industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed improvements.

Skills

Process leadership

Process optimization

Statistical analysis

Process simulation

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the advanced manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced Lead Process Engineer to enhance their innovative operations in Bloemfontein, Free State . This critical role involves optimizing existing production processes and developing new ones to improve efficiency, quality, and safety across manufacturing lines. You will lead a team of process engineers, providing technical guidance and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The position embraces a hybrid work model, fostering collaboration while offering flexibility. We are looking for a visionary engineer with a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, process simulation, and statistical process control, coupled with strong leadership capabilities. Join us in driving operational excellence and technological advancement within our client’s facilities in Bloemfontein .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, implementation, and optimization of industrial manufacturing processes.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, yield, cost reduction, and waste minimization.
• Develop and implement statistical process control (SPC) strategies to monitor and maintain process stability and quality.
• Oversee the commissioning and validation of new equipment and process technologies.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues and implement effective corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and safety protocols.
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, production, quality assurance, and maintenance.
• Stay current with industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements related to process engineering.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses for proposed process improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with a significant portion in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Proven expertise in process design, optimization, and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistical analysis tools.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies is highly desirable.
• Excellent understanding of safety regulations and environmental compliance.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage projects effectively and work collaboratively in a team setting.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a robust retirement savings plan. The hybrid work model provides flexibility. Employees gain access to advanced manufacturing technologies and opportunities for significant professional growth through training, certifications, and conference attendance. This role provides the chance to lead impactful projects that shape the future of manufacturing operations. Join our client’s committed team in Bloemfontein, Free State , and contribute to driving innovation and operational excellence.