Process Development Engineer - Specialty Polymers

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement plans

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA is seeking a Process Development Engineer to translate lab discoveries into scalable manufacturing processes for high‑performance polymers.

You will design, develop and optimize polymerization, purification and material handling, scale from lab to pilot and commercial scales, and collaborate with R&D and manufacturing teams to ensure safety, quality and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in process development and scale-up in specialty polymers or fine chemicals.
• Strong understanding of polymerization mechanisms and process development.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical processes for synthesis and purification of specialty polymers.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments to study kinetics and process parameters.
• Scale up polymerization processes from lab to pilot and commercial scales; address technical challenges.
• Create PFDs and P&IDs for new process designs.
• Specify equipment such as reactors, extruders, filters, and drying systems.
• Conduct PHAs and implement safety protocols.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and QA teams.
• Analyze process data to drive continuous improvement and cost reduction.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Process optimization

Chemical engineering principles

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science

Tools

Process simulation and modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the development of high-performance specialty polymers, is seeking a dedicated Process Development Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA . This role is crucial for translating laboratory discoveries into commercially viable manufacturing processes. You will be involved in the design, development, and optimization of polymerization reactions, purification techniques, and material handling processes. The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in polymer chemistry and chemical engineering principles, with hands‑on experience in scaling up complex chemical processes. You will work closely with research scientists and manufacturing personnel to ensure the efficient and safe production of novel polymer materials. This position offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of materials innovation within a dynamic and growing company. We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented engineer with a passion for problem‑solving and process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize chemical processes for the synthesis and purification of specialty polymers.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments to explore reaction kinetics, process parameters, and product quality.
• Scale up polymerization processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial scales, identifying and mitigating technical challenges.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) for new process designs.
• Specify process equipment, including reactors, extruders, filters, and drying systems.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety protocols.
• Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions to ensure consistent product quality and yield.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance.
• Analyze process data to drive continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives.
• Stay current with industry trends and new technologies in polymer science and processing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development and scale-up, preferably within the specialty polymers or fine chemicals industry.
• Strong understanding of polymerization mechanisms, reaction engineering, and polymer characterization techniques.
• Hands‑on experience with process simulation and modeling tools is desirable.
• Experience in conducting Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and quality in process development.
• Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well‑being and professional growth. This includes robust medical, dental, and retirement plans. Opportunities for advanced training and professional development are provided. The company culture emphasizes innovation and collaboration. This role is located in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA , offering a chance to work within a growing industry hub. Our client is committed to providing a stimulating work environment and career advancement opportunities.