Process Development Engineer - Chemical

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 221,000 - 443,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Process Development Engineer to join our client’s expanding operations. This remote role supports projects in Upington, Northern Cape (ZA), focusing on research, development, and piloting of new chemical processes to boost quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

You will work independently with strong communication, collaborate with on-site teams, and translate laboratory work into scalable industrial processes, following SHE standards and delivering clear technical

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related discipline.
• 4+ years of experience in process development, scale-up, or process engineering within the chemical industry.
• Experience with laboratory experimentation and pilot plant operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous data analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Conduct lab and pilot-scale experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and prepare technical reports.
• Design and specify process equipment for pilot and commercial scale operations.
• Develop PFDs and preliminary equipment specifications.
• Troubleshoot technical challenges during development and scale-up.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists, plant engineers, and project managers.
• Prepare proposals and scope documents for process development projects.
• Ensure compliance with SHE standards in all activities.
• Assist transfer of developed processes to manufacturing or facilities.
• Stay updated with advancements in chemical engineering technologies.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and innovative Process Development Engineer to join their expanding operations, with this role based remotely but focused on supporting projects in the **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA** region. This position is ideal for an experienced chemical engineer looking for a flexible, project-based engagement. You will be instrumental in the research, development, and piloting of new chemical processes, aiming to enhance product quality, efficiency, and sustainability. This remote role requires strong self-management skills, excellent communication, and the ability to collaborate effectively with on-site teams. You'll be contributing to vital process improvements and innovations, bridging the gap between laboratory research and industrial application from your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and develop technical reports.
• Design and specify process equipment for pilot and commercial scale operations.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and preliminary equipment specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges during process development and scale-up.
• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists, plant engineers, and project managers.
• Prepare proposals and scope documents for process development projects.
• Ensure all development activities adhere to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) standards.
• Assist in the transfer of developed processes to manufacturing or commercial facilities.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in chemical engineering technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in process development, scale-up, or process engineering within the **chemical industry**.
• Proven experience with laboratory experimentation and pilot plant operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a meticulous approach to data analysis.
• Familiarity with process simulation and modeling software is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple tasks.
• Experience supporting operations in the **Northern Cape, ZA** area is beneficial.
• Must be comfortable working remotely and effectively managing project deliverables.

Benefits

This contract position offers a competitive daily rate, reflecting the specialized skills and remote nature of the role. Our client provides opportunities to work on challenging and impactful projects that contribute to advancements in chemical processes. While remote, you will have access to extensive project documentation and regular virtual meetings with the team supporting **Upington**. This role provides flexibility and the chance to broaden your project portfolio.