Process Development Engineer - Pharmaceutical Intermediates

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 950,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work options

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape is seeking a Process Development Engineer to lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of pharmaceutical production processes. You will work closely with R&D chemists and manufacturing teams to bridge lab work to commercial production with strict quality and regulatory standards.

The role requires an MSc/PhD in Chemical Engineering and a minimum of 5 years in process development, with strong chemistry and data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within pharma or fine chemical industries.
• Strong understanding of organic chemistry, reaction kinetics, and separation technologies.
• Experience with cGMP regulations in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Proficiency in process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Excellent experimental design and problem-solving skills.
• Strong technical writing and communication abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with PAT (Process Analytical Technology) is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and meet timelines.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical synthesis processes for pharmaceutical intermediates and APIs.
• Conduct process scale-up studies from laboratory bench to pilot and commercial scale.
• Perform process characterization and validation activities.
• Design and execute experiments to improve process efficiency, yield, and safety.
• Troubleshoot process-related issues during development and manufacturing.
• Ensure all processes comply with cGMP and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality Assurance, and Manufacturing teams.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, batch records, and development protocols.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and equipment for process improvement.
• Contribute to the transfer of processes to manufacturing sites.

Skills

5+ years in process development

Chemical engineering fundamentals

Problem solving

Technical writing

Team collaboration

Education

MSc or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, is seeking a highly motivated Process Development Engineer to join their innovative team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role focuses on the development, optimization, and scale-up of chemical processes for pharmaceutical intermediates and APIs. You will work closely with R&D chemists and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless transition from laboratory to commercial production, adhering to strict quality and regulatory standards (e.g., cGMP). The ideal candidate possesses strong chemical engineering fundamentals, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for pharmaceutical sciences. This is an excellent career opportunity within a globally recognized organization situated in the beautiful Stellenbosch region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical synthesis processes for pharmaceutical intermediates and APIs
• Conduct process scale-up studies, from laboratory bench to pilot and commercial scale
• Perform process characterization and validation activities
• Design and execute experiments to improve process efficiency, yield, and safety
• Troubleshoot process-related issues during development and manufacturing
• Ensure all processes are designed and operated in compliance with cGMP and other relevant regulations
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, Quality Assurance, and Manufacturing
• Prepare detailed technical reports, batch records, and development protocols
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and equipment for process improvement
• Contribute to the technical transfer of processes to manufacturing sites

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the pharmaceutical or fine chemical industry
• Strong understanding of organic chemistry, reaction kinetics, and separation technologies
• Experience with cGMP regulations and requirements in pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Proficiency in process simulation and data analysis tools
• Excellent experimental design and problem-solving skills
• Strong technical writing and communication abilities
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
• Familiarity with PAT (Process Analytical Technology) is a plus
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and meet timelines

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, attractive bonus scheme, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, retirement fund, and paid time off. We provide extensive opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth within our global network. This hybrid role based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, offers a dynamic work environment with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week.