Process Development Scientist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Life insurance

Training opportunities

Hybrid work

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Development Scientist in Paarl, Western Cape, for hybrid work combining lab hands-on development with remote data analysis and collaboration with global teams.

You will design experiments to develop and optimize synthesis and purification methods, characterize materials, and scale processes from lab to pilot and production. Strong analytical skills and a PhD/ MSc are required.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in process development within chemical or pharmaceutical industries.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical methods (e.g., DOE).
• Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (e.g., HPLC, GC, NMR, MS).
• Experience with process modeling and simulation tools is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, self-motivated and collaborative.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis and purification processes.
• Characterize materials and products using analytical techniques.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new chemical processes and technologies.
• Scale up lab processes to pilot plant and production scale with safety and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and resolve process issues during development and scale-up.
• Document procedures, results, and conclusions in detailed reports.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams.
• Stay updated on scientific literature and tech advances.
• Contribute to process safety assessments and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

DOE

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Tools

HPLC

GC

NMR

MS

Process modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a talented and motivated Process Development Scientist to join their innovative team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is dedicated to the research, development, and optimization of new and existing chemical processes. You will be instrumental in translating laboratory discoveries into robust, scalable manufacturing methods. This is a hybrid position, requiring dedicated time in our Paarl -based research facility for hands-on experimentation and process validation, balanced with remote work for data analysis, reporting, and collaboration with global teams. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for bringing innovative chemical solutions from concept to reality. You will work closely with engineers and chemists to ensure seamless technology transfer and successful implementation in production environments. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking work in a dynamic field.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to develop and optimize chemical synthesis and purification processes.
• Characterize materials and products using various analytical techniques.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new chemical processes and technologies.
• Scale up laboratory processes to pilot plant and commercial scale, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and resolve process issues encountered during development and scale-up.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in detailed reports.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, engineering, and manufacturing.
• Stay updated on relevant scientific literature and technological advancements.
• Contribute to process safety assessments and ensure compliance with regulations.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in process development within the chemical or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical methods (e.g., DOE).
• Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (e.g., HPLC, GC, NMR, MS).
• Experience with process modeling and simulation tools is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, demonstrating self-motivation and collaborative spirit.
• Willingness to work on-site at the Paarl facility as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and bonus structure, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement planning, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional growth through training, workshops, and conference attendance are provided.
• The hybrid work arrangement offers a desirable balance between focused work and collaborative engagement.
• Paid time off and company holidays are standard.