Lead Process Optimization Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Performance-based bonus

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a seasoned Lead Process Optimization Engineer to drive efficiency, optimize yield, and reduce production costs across the site while upholding strict cGMP standards.

You will lead a multi-disciplinary team, develop advanced process models, design and execute DOE plans, oversee scale-up from pilot to commercial scale, and collaborate with R&D, QA, and production to deliver measurable gains and sustained quality.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive process engineering experience with optimization and scale-up.
• Leadership experience managing projects and teams.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus, SuperPro Designer and statistical tools.
• Solid knowledge of cGMP and pharmaceutical manufacturing principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead process optimization projects to improve efficiency, yield, and cost.
• Develop and maintain advanced process models to predict behavior.
• Analyze complex data to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a high-performance team.
• Design and execute DOE experiments to validate improvements.
• Oversee scale-up from pilot to commercial scale.
• Ensure all changes comply with cGMP and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with production, R&D, and QA for seamless integration.
• Present findings and project updates to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Problem solving

Team mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering (optional)

Tools

Aspen Plus

SuperPro Designer

JMP

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking pharmaceutical manufacturer, is seeking a seasoned Lead Process Optimization Engineer to enhance and streamline their production processes in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. This senior position requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying inefficiencies and implementing innovative solutions to improve yield, reduce costs, and ensure consistent product quality. You will lead a team of engineers, directing efforts in process analysis, debottlenecking, and continuous improvement initiatives. The role involves a hybrid work arrangement, offering a balance between on-site collaboration at our **Stellenbosch** facility and remote flexibility for focused analysis and reporting. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on our operational excellence and contribute to the company's growth trajectory. We are committed to fostering a high-performance culture where expertise is valued and innovation is encouraged.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the identification and implementation of process optimization projects to improve efficiency, yield, and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and maintain advanced process models to simulate and predict process behavior under various conditions.
• Analyze complex process data to identify root causes of deviations and develop corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-achieving team environment.
• Design and execute experimental plans (DOE) to validate process improvements.
• Oversee the scale-up of optimized processes from pilot to commercial scale.
• Ensure all process changes comply with stringent pharmaceutical quality standards (cGMP) and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with production, R&D, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless integration of optimized processes.
• Present findings, recommendations, and project updates to senior management.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on optimization and scale-up.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing engineering projects and teams.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, SuperPro Designer) and statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab).
• In-depth knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, separation processes, and process control.
• Proven ability to apply statistical methods and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Excellent understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing principles and cGMP.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities in **Stellenbosch**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program.
• Employees enjoy flexible hybrid working arrangements, professional development opportunities including advanced training and conference attendance, and participation in innovative projects.
• The **Stellenbosch** location offers a stimulating work environment within a beautiful region.
• We provide robust health and wellness programs, retirement savings plans, and a generous performance-based bonus structure.
• This role is designed for experienced professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding career path.