Process Development Engineer - Scale-Up Specialist

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement contributions

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Development Engineer specializing in scale-up for a chemical R&D company in Tembisa, Gauteng. The role blends hands-on pilot plant work with collaboration across R&D and production teams to translate lab innovations into viable manufacturing processes.

You will design and execute pilot studies, develop process models, specify equipment, and ensure safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• 6+ years of process development and scale-up experience in the chemical industry.
• Proficiency with process simulation tools such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS.
• Experience with pilot plant operations and equipment design.
• Strong knowledge of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer.
• Knowledge of process safety and risk assessment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a hybrid work model (remote + on-site).
• Eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead scale-up from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Design and execute pilot plant studies to validate parameters.
• Analyze pilot data and recommend process optimizations.
• Develop process models to predict performance at larger scales.
• Collaborate with R&D and production for technology transfer.
• Specify equipment for pilot plant operations.
• Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Prepare technical reports and scale-up strategies.
• Troubleshoot issues during pilot operations and scale-up.
• Contribute to full-scale manufacturing process design.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Process simulation

Data analysis

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking chemical research and development company, is seeking a skilled Process Development Engineer with a specialization in scale-up. This hybrid role, based in Tembisa, Gauteng , will be instrumental in translating laboratory innovations into viable, commercial-scale manufacturing processes. You will focus on designing, executing, and analyzing pilot plant trials, ensuring smooth transitions from bench to production. Your expertise in chemical engineering principles, coupled with practical experience in scale-up challenges, will be critical. This position offers a stimulating environment where you can contribute to the development of new chemical products and processes. The hybrid nature of the role allows for both focused independent work and essential collaborative engagement with R&D and production teams. You will be at the forefront of bringing innovative chemical solutions to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the scale-up of chemical processes from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial scale.
• Design and execute experimental plans for pilot plant studies to validate process parameters and identify scale-up challenges.
• Analyze pilot plant data, interpret results, and make recommendations for process optimization and troubleshooting.
• Develop process models and simulations to predict performance at larger scales.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists and engineers to ensure effective technology transfer.
• Specify and select appropriate equipment for pilot plant operations.
• Ensure all scale-up activities adhere to strict safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, including scale-up strategies and operational procedures.
• Troubleshoot issues encountered during pilot plant operations and scale-up phases.
• Contribute to the design and development of full-scale manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process development and scale-up within the chemical industry.
• Demonstrated success in scaling up chemical processes, with a strong understanding of scale-dependent phenomena.
• Proficiency in process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience with pilot plant operations and equipment design.
• Solid understanding of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer.
• Knowledge of process safety principles and risk assessment techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical coverage and retirement contributions. This hybrid role provides a flexible work arrangement based in Tembisa, Gauteng . We support continuous learning and professional development, offering access to advanced training and industry conferences. Join an innovative company focused on bringing cutting-edge chemical technologies to market. You will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to scientific advancement and operational excellence. Experience a rewarding career at the intersection of R&D and manufacturing.