Remote Lead Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Home office allowance

Remote working support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Lead Chemical Engineer for a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions. Based from anywhere in South Africa, you will drive advanced process optimization across international facilities, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

You will design and validate chemical processes, lead multi-site projects, perform risk assessments including HAZOP, and mentor engineering teams remotely.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical process design, optimization and scale-up, with substantial remote collaboration.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD) and advanced data analytics tools.
• Proven ability to lead complex, international projects with cross-functional, geographically dispersed teams.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM), LOPA, and risk assessment methods.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical and strategic thinking abilities.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills suited to remote work.
• Self-motivated and disciplined with strong time-management skills.
• Must have reliable high-speed internet and a dedicated home office setup.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of advanced process optimization strategies across production sites globally in a fully remote capacity.
• Design, simulate, and validate novel chemical processes using state-of-the-art software and digital technologies.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement; propose data-driven solutions.
• Develop and manage project plans for process upgrades and new technology integrations; ensure on-time, within-budget delivery.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, including HAZOP studies, coordinating with site teams remotely.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams across locations.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices; promote remote collaboration.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative remote working environment with knowledge sharing.

Skills

Process design

Process optimization

Project leadership

Remote collaboration

Data analytics

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

ChemCAD

Data analytics tools

Job description

About the Role Join our client, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions, as a Remote Lead Chemical Engineer. This is a fully remote, first-class opportunity to drive innovation in process optimization across our international facilities. Based from anywhere within South Africa, you will be at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge strategies to enhance our manufacturing processes, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. This role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in chemical engineering principles and a proven track record of managing complex projects from inception to completion. You will collaborate virtually with diverse teams, leveraging advanced digital tools to achieve unparalleled process performance and contribute to our company's mission of environmental stewardship and technological advancement. If you are passionate about shaping the future of chemical manufacturing from a remote setting, this position is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced process optimization strategies across multiple production sites globally, functioning in a fully remote capacity.
• Design, simulate, and validate novel chemical processes and modifications using state-of-the-art software and digital technologies.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement, proposing data-driven solutions.
• Develop and manage project plans for process upgrades and new technology integrations, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, including HAZOP studies, to ensure the safety and integrity of all chemical processes, remotely coordinating with site teams.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams across different locations.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in chemical engineering and process optimization.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative remote working environment, encouraging knowledge sharing and continuous learning.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical process design, optimization, and scale-up, with a significant portion involving remote collaboration.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD) and advanced data analytics tools.
• Proven ability to lead complex, international projects and manage cross-functional, geographically dispersed teams.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM), LOPA, and risk assessment methodologies.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, suitable for a remote work environment.
• Self-motivated and disciplined with a strong ability to manage time effectively and work autonomously.
• Must have reliable high-speed internet and a dedicated home office setup to facilitate a fully remote working experience.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, potential for annual bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and significant opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. Our client champions work-life balance and supports its remote workforce with allowances for home office setup and connectivity.
• You will be part of a global team that values innovation, collaboration, and employee well-being, with ample scope for career advancement within the organization.