Process Development Chemist - Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Retirement plan

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Development Chemist to optimize synthesis routes for APIs in Richards Bay. You will lead scale-up efforts, conduct hazard analyses, and collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and engineering to transfer processes safely into production.

Ideal candidates hold a master's or PhD in organic chemistry or chemical engineering, with 4+ years in pharma process development and strong analytical skills using HPLC, GC, NMR, and MS.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a relevant chemistry/engineering field is required.
• Proven experience in process development within pharma or fine chemicals.
• Strong knowledge of reaction mechanisms and scale-up activities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize synthetic routes for APIs and intermediates.
• Conduct hazard analyses and implement safety measures.
• Perform lab-scale studies to study kinetics and thermodynamics.
• Develop validated analytical methods for monitoring progress.
• Troubleshoot scale-up issues and support pilot and commercial batches.
• Prepare detailed reports and ensure GMP compliance.

Skills

Organic chemistry

Process development

Scale-up

Chemical engineering principles

Hazard analysis

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's or PhD in Organic Chemistry

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

HPLC

GC

NMR

MS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and expanding pharmaceutical manufacturer, is looking for an innovative Process Development Chemist to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is central to optimizing and scaling up chemical synthesis processes for new and existing pharmaceutical products. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of organic chemistry and chemical engineering principles, with a proven ability to develop robust, efficient, and safe manufacturing processes. The position involves close collaboration with R&D, manufacturing, and engineering teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and successful production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and intermediates, upholding the highest standards of quality and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and optimize synthetic routes for APIs and intermediates, focusing on yield, purity, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. Conduct process hazard assessments and implement appropriate safety measures for chemical processes. Perform laboratory-scale experiments to study reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and optimize process parameters. Develop and validate analytical methods for monitoring reaction progress and product quality. Troubleshoot and resolve process-related issues encountered during scale-up and commercial manufacturing. Collaborate with chemical engineers to design and implement pilot-scale and commercial manufacturing processes. Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation, and batch manufacturing records. Ensure all process development activities comply with GMP, environmental regulations, and safety standards. Stay abreast of new technologies and methodologies in process chemistry and manufacturing.

Requirements

Master's or PhD degree in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field. A minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in process development within the pharmaceutical or fine chemical industry. Strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience in synthetic organic chemistry and reaction mechanisms. Experience with process scale-up, from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial manufacturing. Familiarity with process safety evaluations and hazard analysis techniques. Proficiency in analytical techniques relevant to process monitoring (e.g., HPLC, GC, NMR, MS). Excellent problem-solving skills and a systematic approach to process optimization. Strong project management and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams. Demonstrated understanding of GMP principles and regulatory requirements.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits portfolio, including private medical insurance, a generous retirement plan, and performance-based bonuses. Employees have access to extensive training and professional development opportunities, including funding for relevant certifications and conferences. The role is based in the scenic coastal town of Richards Bay , offering a unique lifestyle balance. While this is a site-based role, the company culture emphasizes teamwork, innovation, and employee well-being. Opportunities for career progression within a growing international company are excellent. Join our client to drive innovation in pharmaceutical manufacturing and contribute to improving global health outcomes.