Process Development Engineer - Specialty Chemicals

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Learning and development programs

Innovative work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, is seeking a Process Development Engineer to advance specialty chemical processes from lab scale to pilot and potential commercial production. You will lead technology transfer, drive process improvements, and collaborate with chemists and engineers.

The role emphasizes safe, efficient and economical manufacturing, hands-on lab and pilot plant work, and using modeling tools to optimize yield and quality.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemical Engineering required (Bachelor's or Master’s).
• Hands-on experience with lab equipment and pilot-scale operations.
• Experience with process modeling and simulation tools.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques for process monitoring.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and scale-up of new chemical processes for specialty products.
• Conduct laboratory experiments, pilot trials, and plant studies to collect data.
• Analyze process data to improve yield, quality and cost efficiency.
• Prepare PFDs and P&IDs and other technical reports.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to enable technology transfer.
• Ensure all activities comply with SHE guidelines.

Skills

Lab equipment

Pilot plant operations

Process modeling

Analytical techniques

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a motivated Process Development Engineer to join their cutting-edge team in George, focusing on the development and optimisation of specialty chemical processes. This role involves taking novel chemical concepts from laboratory scale through to pilot and potentially commercial scale production. You will work on challenging projects that require a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that new products can be manufactured safely, efficiently, and economically. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the innovation pipeline of a growing company and gain exposure to a wide range of chemical technologies within the beautiful surroundings of the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and scale-up of new chemical processes for specialty products.
• Conduct laboratory experiments, pilot trials, and plant-based studies to gather critical process data.
• Analyze process performance data to identify areas for improvement in yield, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process flow diagrams (PFDs), and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Collaborate with research chemists and plant engineers to ensure seamless technology transfer and successful implementation.
• Ensure all process development activities adhere to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering .
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in process development, scale-up, or manufacturing support within the chemical sector.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and pilot plant operations.
• Proficiency in process modeling and simulation tools.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques for chemical characterization and process monitoring.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between home and the George office.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Commitment to employee growth through continuous learning and development programs.
• A stimulating work environment where innovation and scientific curiosity are highly valued.