Process Development Engineer - Polymer Additives

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Development Engineer in Pretoria, Gauteng to drive development and optimization of manufacturing processes for polymer additives. The role involves translating lab-scale innovations into robust, scalable industrial processes while collaborating with R&D and production teams.

The ideal candidate has a chemical engineering or polymer science background with 5+ years in process development, scale-up, and data analysis, plus knowledge of kinetics and polymer

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science.
• 5+ years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Strong knowledge of reaction kinetics, polymer chemistry, and separation techniques.
• Hands-on experience with pilot plant operations and data analysis.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, Chemcad) is desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical processes for synthesis and production of polymer additives.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and scale-up studies to define optimal operating parameters.
• Design and implement experiments to improve yield, purity and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot process issues, identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for new processes and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D to ensure smooth lab-to-production transfer.
• Ensure compliance with SAFETY, HEALTH and ENVIRONMENT regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation and guidelines.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process improvements.

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic manufacturer of advanced polymer additives, is seeking an innovative Process Development Engineer to join their team in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role is crucial for driving the development and optimization of new and existing manufacturing processes for a diverse range of polymer additives. You will be responsible for translating laboratory-scale innovations into robust, scalable, and cost-effective industrial processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, polymer science, and process design principles. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of materials innovation and contribute significantly to product commercialization within a supportive and technologically advanced environment in Pretoria.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical processes for the synthesis and production of polymer additives.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and scale-up studies, analyzing results to define optimal operating parameters.
• Design and implement experiments to improve process yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot process issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and P&IDs for new processes and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D scientists and engineers to ensure seamless transition from lab to production.
• Ensure all processes comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization, preferably in the specialty chemicals or polymers industry.
• Strong knowledge of reaction kinetics, polymer chemistry, and separation techniques.
• Hands-on experience with pilot plant operations and data analysis.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, Chemcad) is desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Understanding of SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment) principles.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a generous retirement fund, and significant opportunities for professional growth and training. This hybrid role offers flexibility, allowing for a balance between in-office collaboration and focused remote work. Employees benefit from a stimulating work environment, access to advanced analytical tools, and the chance to contribute to cutting-edge product development in Pretoria, Gauteng. Join a team dedicated to innovation and excellence in polymer science.