Process Engineer - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 850,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Engineer for our Durban, KwaZulu-Natal facility to optimize and troubleshoot complex chemical processes, improving yield, safety, and product quality. You will develop process simulations and P&IDs, conduct root cause analyses, and lead cross-functional projects with R&D, production, and QA to deliver scalable solutions.

The role requires a Chem Eng degree, 4+ years in chemical manufacturing, strong analytical skills, and a hands-on, collaborative approach in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• 4+ years of experience in process engineering within chemical manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics and mass transfer.
• Experience with process safety methods (HAZOP) and GMP/ISO standards.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize chemical processes to improve yield and reduce costs.
• Develop and maintain process simulation models and P&IDs.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues and provide timely solutions.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental policies and standards.
• Collaborate with R&D to scale up from lab to pilot and commercial scale.
• Lead process improvement projects from conception to completion.
• Deliver training to operators on new processes and equipment.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Hands-on

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

ChemCAD

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the chemical manufacturing sector, is actively seeking a highly skilled and motivated Process Engineer for their facility located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This pivotal role focuses on optimizing and troubleshooting complex chemical processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality. The successful candidate will be a critical contributor to our client's ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainable manufacturing practices. This position requires a strong analytical mindset, a hands‑on approach, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including R&D, production, and quality assurance. If you are passionate about chemical engineering and eager to make a tangible impact in a leading industrial environment, this opportunity in Durban is for you.

Key Responsibilities

Design, implement, and optimize chemical processes to improve yield, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. Develop and maintain process simulation models and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams). Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions. Troubleshoot equipment and process issues, providing timely and effective solutions. Ensure all processes comply with industry regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies. Collaborate with the R&D team on scaling up new products and processes from lab to pilot and commercial scale. Manage process improvement projects from conception through to completion. Develop and deliver training to operators and technicians on new processes and equipment. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for processes and identify areas for continuous improvement. Maintain detailed documentation of process changes, operating procedures, and safety protocols.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field. Minimum of 4 years of experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry. Strong understanding of chemical thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mass transfer principles. Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD) and CAD tools. Experience with HAZOP studies and other process safety assessment techniques. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ISO standards. Must have legal working rights in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package including a substantial annual salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package encompassing medical aid, a provident fund, and generous annual leave. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a rapidly growing and technologically advanced company. Employees benefit from continuous training programs and exposure to diverse chemical processes. The work environment in Durban is dynamic and supportive, fostering innovation and teamwork. This is a chance to join a well-established entity with a strong reputation for quality and sustainability in the chemical industry.