Principal Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; Híbrido; ZAR 1.500.000 - 2.100.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Performance bonuses

Stock options

Health coverage

Retirement plan

Remote-first with occasional travel

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Process Development Engineer for a remote-first position. You will lead the development of novel chemical processes from laboratory scale through pilot and commercialization, shaping the company’s product pipeline and manufacturing capabilities.

This senior role requires a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering, 10+ years in process development, and expertise in Aspen Plus/PRO/II with strong project leadership.

Formación

• PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering with 10+ years in process development.
• Proven track record scaling lab processes to pilot and production.
• Expertise in process simulation and data analysis tools.

Responsabilidades

• Lead conceptualization and development of new chemical processes.
• Oversee scale-up from lab to pilot to full-scale production.
• Conduct process modeling, simulation, and data analysis.
• Create PFDs, P&IDs, mass/energy balances, equipment specs.
• Collaborate with R&D, project managers, and manufacturing teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and ensure safety/regulatory compliance.

Conocimientos

Process development

Scale-up

Process modeling

Statistical analysis

Project management

Technical communication

Remote work capability

Educación

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Master's in Chemical Engineering

Herramientas

Aspen Plus

PRO/II

MATLAB

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced materials and chemical solutions, is seeking an exceptional Principal Process Development Engineer to join their innovative team. This is a remote-first position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere while being integral to our operations. You will spearhead the development of novel chemical processes, from laboratory scale through to pilot and commercialization. This senior role demands deep technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into viable manufacturing processes. We are looking for a visionary engineer who can drive innovation and significantly impact the company's product pipeline and manufacturing capabilities. This role is crucial for maintaining our competitive edge and fostering a culture of cutting-edge research and development in the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of new chemical manufacturing processes.
• Oversee the scale-up of laboratory processes to pilot plant and full-scale production, ensuring efficiency and safety.
• Conduct rigorous process modeling, simulation, and data analysis to optimize process parameters and performance.
• Develop detailed process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, mass/energy balances, and equipment specifications.
• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists, project managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges encountered during process development and implementation.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and equipment to enhance process capabilities.
• Ensure all process development activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technical staff, sharing expertise and fostering technical growth.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical or pharmaceutical industry.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, PRO/II) and statistical analysis tools.
• Deep understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena.
• Proven track record of successfully commercializing new chemical processes.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively in a remote setting.

Benefits

This role comes with a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, stock options, and a comprehensive benefits package including extended health coverage, life insurance, and a robust retirement plan. As a remote-first position, you benefit from the flexibility to work from home, supplemented by occasional travel to company sites for key project milestones. Our client invests in continuous learning and development, offering access to advanced training programs and conferences. You will be part of a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and employee well-being, contributing to impactful projects that shape the future of the chemical industry.