Process Optimization Engineer - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement fund contributions

Flexible remote work options

Competitive salary package

Generous annual leave

Opportunities for professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Process Optimization Engineer for a Durban-based role in the specialty chemicals sector. You will analyze manufacturing methods, identify bottlenecks, and implement data-driven improvements to boost throughput, safety, and sustainability.

Responsibilities include pilot-scale testing, collaborating with operations and R&D, developing SOPs, and training staff. Proficiency with Aspen Plus or HYSYS and statistical tools is essential to drive measurable performance gains.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.

Responsibilities

• Analyze chemical processes to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks using statistics.
• Develop and implement optimization strategies to improve yield and reduce cycle times.
• Design pilot-scale experiments to test new configurations.
• Collaborate with operations and R&D to scale lab findings into industrial processes.
• Implement process control strategies for product quality and stability.
• Use process simulation tools to model and optimize parameters.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Minitab

JMP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the specialty chemicals industry, is seeking an innovative Process Optimization Engineer to join their operational excellence team based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is critical in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will be responsible for analyzing existing production methods, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing data-driven solutions to improve throughput and reduce operational costs. This position requires a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, process control, and statistical analysis. It offers an excellent opportunity to drive significant improvements in a key industrial sector. You will work with a dedicated team focused on maintaining high standards of production and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze chemical manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement using statistical tools and process mapping.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies to enhance yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize waste.
• Design and conduct pilot-scale experiments to test new process configurations and technologies.
• Collaborate with plant operations and R&D teams to translate laboratory findings into scalable industrial processes.
• Implement and monitor process control strategies to ensure consistent product quality and operational stability.
• Utilize process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) to model and optimize process parameters.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for optimized processes.
• Train plant personnel on new process methodologies and operational best practices.
• Contribute to the evaluation and selection of new equipment and technologies for process enhancement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in process engineering, with a focus on optimization within the chemical manufacturing sector.
• Strong knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, separation processes, and process control systems.
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar.
• Experience with statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and data analysis techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong understanding of safety principles and environmental regulations in chemical manufacturing.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional growth and training.
• Generous annual leave.
• Flexible remote work options for strategic planning and analysis phases.
• The chance to work on impactful projects that improve industrial efficiency.
• Collaborative team environment.
• Access to advanced simulation tools in Durban.
• Performance-based bonuses.