Remote Chemical Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Medical coverage

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Chemical Process Development Engineer to drive bench-scale to pilot-scale development from anywhere in South Africa, supporting Bloemfontein operations. The role emphasizes innovative, sustainable chemical processes and virtual collaboration.

The candidate will design experiments, optimize processes, and perform techno-economic analyses, requiring a Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering and 6+ years of experience in process development and scale-up.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or related field required.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical process development and scale-up, preferably pharma or fine chemicals.
• Proven ability to design and conduct lab and pilot-scale experiments.
• Expertise in process simulation software and statistical tools.
• Strong understanding of reaction engineering and thermodynamics.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments for development of new chemical processes and synthesis routes.
• Develop and optimize process parameters for scalability, safety, efficiency, and economics.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for proposed processes.
• Develop pilot-scale testing plans, oversee pilot plant operations, and analyze results.
• Prepare process descriptions, P&IDs, and equipment specifications for new processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in a virtual setting.
• Ensure SHE standards in all process development activities.
• Troubleshoot challenges in process development and scale-up.
• Stay updated on advancements in process technology and innovation.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Techno-economic analysis

Statistical analysis

Virtual collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Dynochem

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in chemical innovation, is actively seeking a talented Remote Chemical Process Development Engineer to join their groundbreaking research and development division. This position is 100% remote, offering you the flexibility to contribute from anywhere within South Africa, supporting our operations in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA . You will be at the forefront of developing novel chemical processes, from bench-scale experimentation through to pilot plant validation and scale-up strategies. This role demands a strong theoretical background, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex chemical concepts into viable industrial processes. We are looking for a self-motivated individual who excels in a virtual collaborative environment and is passionate about driving sustainable chemical solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of chemical manufacturing from the comfort of your home.

Key Responsibilities

Design, execute, and analyze experiments for the development of new chemical processes and synthesis routes. Develop and optimize process parameters for scalability, safety, efficiency, and economic viability. Conduct techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for proposed chemical processes. Develop pilot-scale testing plans, oversee pilot plant operations, and analyze results. Prepare comprehensive process descriptions, P&IDs, and equipment specifications for new processes. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including research scientists, engineers, and manufacturing personnel, in a virtual setting. Ensure all process development activities adhere to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) standards. Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges encountered during process development and scale-up. Stay updated on the latest advancements in chemical process technology and innovation. Document research findings and prepare technical reports and presentations for internal stakeholders.

Requirements

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field. Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical process development and scale-up, preferably within the pharmaceutical or fine chemicals industry. Proven ability to design and conduct laboratory and pilot-scale experiments. Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Dynochem) and statistical analysis tools. Strong understanding of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena. Demonstrated experience with process safety assessments and risk management. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in virtual collaboration tools. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple projects concurrently. A passion for innovation and a commitment to sustainable chemical practices.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers a competitive annual salary of ZAR , providing flexibility to work from anywhere while supporting our Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA operations. Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent medical coverage, a retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses. Continuous learning is encouraged through access to online training resources, virtual conferences, and opportunities to attend industry events. Employees benefit from flexible working hours and a supportive, inclusive remote work culture that emphasizes work-life balance. Generous paid time off is standard. Our client is dedicated to fostering a diverse and innovative workforce.