Process Development Engineer - Specialty Chemicals

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Home office setup

Travel allowance

Research facilities access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Process Development Engineer focused on specialty chemicals. The role is remote with occasional travel to Durban facilities and centers on translating lab discoveries into scalable manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities include leading synthesis development, experimental design, and technology transfer, with a strong emphasis on kinetics, catalysis, and separation processes. A Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry.
• 5+ years of experience in process development for specialty or fine chemicals.
• Strong skills in process modeling, lab and pilot plant operations, and technical writing.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of new synthesis routes and processes at bench and pilot scales.
• Conduct experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation to validate process parameters.
• Prepare process descriptions, PFDs, and PIDs for new process implementations.
• Evaluate and select process equipment and instrumentation for pilot and commercial scale-up.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and engineers to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for development initiatives.

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an innovative Process Development Engineer to focus on specialty chemicals, based remotely but with occasional travel to their Durban facilities. This role is centered on the research, development, and scale-up of novel chemical processes. You will translate laboratory discoveries into viable manufacturing processes, working with advanced materials and unique reaction chemistries. This is a fantastic opportunity for a forward-thinking engineer to drive innovation, solve complex technical challenges, and make a significant impact on the company's product portfolio and market competitiveness, all while enjoying the flexibility of a remote work arrangement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of new chemical synthesis routes and processes at bench and pilot scales.
• Conduct experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation to validate process parameters.
• Prepare detailed process descriptions, PFDs, and PIDs for new process implementations.
• Evaluate and select appropriate process equipment and instrumentation for pilot and commercial scale-up.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists and engineers to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for process development initiatives.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry.
• Extensive experience (5+ years) in process development, particularly with specialty or fine chemicals.
• Proficiency in process simulation and modeling software.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory and pilot plant operations.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, catalysis, and separation processes.
• Excellent technical writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Significant opportunities for career growth and specialization in cutting-edge chemical technologies.
• Fully remote work environment with support for home office setup.
• Allowance for business travel and accommodation.
• Access to advanced research facilities and a collaborative scientific community.