Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Career development opportunities

On-site modern lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Development Engineer to join the mining and chemical processing team in Klerksdorp. You will lead bench-scale experiments, pilot plant operations, and scale-up activities for new and existing chemical processes used in mineral extraction and refining.

The role requires a strong chemical engineering foundation, data-driven problem solving, and collaboration with metallurgists and other engineers to deliver safe, efficient processes and robust technical reports

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years in process development, R&D, or process engineering.
• Experience in hydrometallurgical or related chemical processing desirable.
• Proficiency with process simulation and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to develop new chemical processes.
• Operate and troubleshoot pilot plant facilities and collect performance data.
• Analyze data to identify improvements and optimization opportunities.
• Develop PFDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specs.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations to scale up processes.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations for management.
• Ensure safety, health, and environmental regulations compliance.
• Stay updated on advances in chemical process technology.
• Provide technical support during initial process implementation.
• Contribute to capital cost estimates and feasibility studies.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Experimentation

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

HSC Chemistry

MEDUSA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a recognized leader in the mining and chemical processing sector, is seeking a dedicated Process Development Engineer to join their technical team in Klerksdorp . This role is crucial for the advancement and optimization of existing and new chemical processes utilized in mineral extraction and refining. The successful candidate will be responsible for bench-scale experimentation, pilot plant operations, and the successful scale-up of processes to commercial production. A strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, particularly in areas relevant to hydrometallurgy and materials science, is essential. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on challenging projects that directly impact operational efficiency and profitability. You will collaborate closely with metallurgists, geologists, and other engineers to develop innovative solutions. We are committed to fostering a safe and productive working environment for all our employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to investigate and develop new chemical processes.
• Operate and troubleshoot pilot plant facilities, gathering critical performance data.
• Analyze process data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs), mass and energy balances, and equipment specifications.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams for the successful scale-up and implementation of developed processes.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for management.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations during experimental and pilot operations.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in chemical process technology and mineral processing techniques.
• Provide technical support to the operational teams during the initial phases of new process implementation.
• Contribute to the development of capital cost estimates and feasibility studies for new process initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in process development, R&D, or process engineering.
• Experience with hydrometallurgical processes or related chemical processing is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., HSC Chemistry, MEDUSA) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments and interpret results.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Familiarity with safety assessment techniques (e.g., HAZOP) is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Employees benefit from substantial opportunities for professional growth and development, including specialized training and potential for career advancement within the organization.
• The role is based on-site in Klerksdorp , offering access to modern laboratory facilities and a collaborative team environment.
• Additional benefits include performance bonuses and a commitment to employee well-being and safety.