Process Engineer I, II, II, IV

Sappi; Umhlanga Rocks; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A global provider of paper products is seeking a motivated Process Engineer for its Paper Production facility in Umhlanga Rocks, South Africa. The ideal candidate will support technical operations, driving safety, quality, and efficiency. Key responsibilities include providing technical support, leading process improvement projects, and mentoring interns. A Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering or Paper Science is required, along with strong communication and analytical skills.

Benefits

Collaborative environment focused on innovation

Opportunity to work on meaningful projects

Qualifications

• Must have a valid driver's license with a demonstrated safe driving record.
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems using analytical tools.

Responsibilities

• Foster and maintain a safe and compliant work environment.
• Provide technical support focused on paper production processes.
• Analyze data to improve quality and troubleshoot problems.
• Lead projects to optimize chemical and mechanical processes.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Analytical problem solving

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Experience with engineering software

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering or Paper Science

Tools

Proficy

SAP

Minitab

Job description

Sappi North America
Sappi Cloquet, established in 1898, produces high-quality graphic papers used in premium magazines, catalogs, books, direct mail and high-end print advertising for the fashion, automotive and travel industries, as well as speciality papers. Cloquet manufactures Verve, a dissolving pulp used for the textile and home goods markets. Energy saving and clean water initiatives at Cloquet have won environmental recognition, aligning with the mill's commitment to sustainability.

We are seeking a motivated and results-driven Process Engineer to join our team and support the technical operations of our Paper Production facility. The ideal candidate will play a key role in driving safety, quality, and efficiency throughout the production process.

Key Responsibilities:

Foster and maintain a safe and compliant work environment.

Provide technical support focused on paper production processes.

Collaborate with production engineers and operations teams to meet or exceed productivity, quality, cost, and safety targets.

Analyze data and apply engineering solutions to improve quality, troubleshoot problems, and support customer satisfaction initiatives.

Lead and implement projects aimed at optimizing chemical and mechanical processes, ensuring product conformance, and supporting new product development.

Complete Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification training and lead related continuous improvement projects.

Mentor and guide engineering co-ops and/or interns in day-to-day activities and development.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering or Paper Science required.

Strong communication skills – both verbal and written.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Proficy, SAP, MES (MICS), Minitab, and other relevant engineering software preferred.

Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification is a plus.

Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems using analytical tools and data-driven decision-making.

• Must have a valid driver's license with a demonstrated safe driving record.

Why Join Us?

Opportunity to work on meaningful, hands-on projects that impact daily operations.

Collaborative environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.

Salary is determined by a number of factors including the value of the job to the organization, market forces, internal equity and skills brought to the job.
Sappi provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Sappi complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

ABOUT SAPPI

Sappi isa leading global provider of everyday materials made from woodfibre-based renewable resources. As a diversified, innovative and trusted leader focused on sustainable processes and products, we are building a more circular economy by making what we should, not just what we can.