Remote Lead Chemical Engineer - Sustainable Technologies

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

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Health benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Chemical Engineer to guide the design, development, and scale-up of sustainable chemical processes. This remote role supports a Benoni-aligned operation and requires strong leadership of diverse teams focused on green technologies.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years of experience in process design and a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering, with hands-on use of Aspen Plus and gPROMS. The role emphasizes safety, cost control, and environmental impact reduction.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Chemical Engineering with a focus on sustainable processes.
• 10+ years of progressive chemical process design, development and scale-up experience, with emphasis on sustainable technologies.
• Experience with green chemistry, life cycle assessment, and renewable feedstock utilization.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and complex, long-term projects.
• Expertise in process simulation software and analytics for optimization.
• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design and scale-up of chemical processes for sustainable technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and scientists.
• Conduct process safety analyses and risk assessments for novel sustainable processes.
• Collaborate with R&D to bridge lab innovations to industry.
• Optimize processes to improve efficiency, reduce energy use and waste.
• Develop and manage project plans, timelines and budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Process scale-up

Green chemistry

Project management

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

MSc in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

gPROMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in developing sustainable chemical solutions, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic, fully remote team. While aligned with our **Benoni, Gauteng** operations, this role offers the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will lead the charge in designing, developing, and implementing innovative chemical processes focused on renewable resources and environmental impact reduction. This position is critical for driving our client's mission to create a more sustainable future through advanced chemical engineering. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of green chemistry principles, and a proven track record in process scale-up and optimization. Join a collaborative and forward-thinking organization dedicated to making a significant positive impact on the planet. Your expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of sustainable chemical manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and scale-up of chemical processes for sustainable and green technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of engineers and scientists focused on sustainability initiatives.
• Conduct rigorous process safety analyses and risk assessments for novel sustainable processes.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial application.
• Optimize existing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and budgets for sustainable technology development.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in green chemistry, renewable energy, and circular economy principles.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, proposals, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and environmental responsibility within the engineering team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field with a specialization in sustainable processes.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical process design, development, and scale-up, with a strong emphasis on sustainable technologies.
• Demonstrated experience with green chemistry principles, life cycle assessment, and renewable feedstock utilization.
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex, long-term projects.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, gPROMS) and analytical tools for process optimization.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage distributed teams effectively.
• Passion for sustainability and driving positive environmental change.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, generous bonus potential, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and extensive opportunities for professional development in the field of sustainable technology. This fully remote position offers exceptional flexibility, with a nominal connection to **Benoni, Gauteng**. Be part of a mission-driven organization at the forefront of environmental innovation and contribute to building a greener future. This is a career-defining opportunity for an engineer passionate about making a difference.