Remote Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 2,470,000 - 3,458,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer to spearhead the design, development, and scale-up of novel chemical processes in a fully remote, globally distributed team. The role emphasizes advanced process modeling, experimental design, and mentorship, with a focus on remote collaboration and documentation.

You will work with international R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to move concepts from bench to pilot and commercial production, while maintaining safety

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering required.
• 10+ years in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization.
• Experience bringing processes from concept to commercialization.
• Expertise in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, gPROMS).
• Knowledge of reaction engineering, separations, and mass transfer.
• Proven experience with HAZOP analysis and other process safety methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, writing, and presentation skills.
• Proven remote project leadership and collaboration.
• Home office setup with reliable internet access.

Responsibilities

• Lead development from bench-scale to industrial implementation.
• Design experiments to study kinetics, thermodynamics, and separations.
• Develop process models to optimize performance and identify critical parameters.
• Oversee pilot plant trials and analyze data for scale-up decisions.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams remotely.
• Ensure safety, environmental compliance, and quality standards throughout the lifecycle.
• Prepare technical reports and process documentation (PFDs, P&IDs).
• Evaluate equipment and technologies for new and existing applications.
• Mentor a team of process engineers and stay updated on industry best practices.
• Communicate complex results effectively to stakeholders.

Skills

Process optimization

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Technical writing

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

gPROMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in innovative chemical solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Chemical Process Development Engineer to join their entirely remote team. This pivotal role focuses on conceptualizing, developing, and scaling up novel chemical processes from laboratory to pilot and ultimately to commercial production. You will be at the forefront of technological advancement, driving the efficiency and sustainability of our client's manufacturing capabilities. As a remote-first organization, we embrace asynchronous collaboration and digital tools to foster a connected and productive environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of chemical manufacturing without geographical constraints, working with a diverse and talented international team. Your expertise will directly influence the development pipeline of groundbreaking chemical products.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of innovative chemical processes, from bench-scale experimentation to industrial implementation.
• Design and execute experimental plans to investigate reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation techniques.
• Develop process models and simulations to predict performance, identify critical parameters, and optimize designs.
• Oversee pilot plant trials, analyze data, and provide recommendations for scale-up.
• Collaborate closely with R&D scientists, engineering disciplines, and manufacturing teams, primarily through virtual channels.
• Ensure rigorous adherence to safety protocols, environmental regulations, and quality standards throughout the process lifecycle.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation (PFDs, P&IDs), and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Evaluate and select appropriate process equipment and technologies for new and existing applications.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of process engineers.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in chemical process development.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical or pharmaceutical industry.
• Demonstrated success in bringing new chemical processes from concept to commercialization.
• Expertise in process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, gPROMS).
• In-depth knowledge of reaction engineering, separations, and mass transfer principles.
• Proven experience with HAZOP analysis and other process safety methodologies.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superior virtual communication and collaboration skills, adept at using digital platforms for teamwork.
• Strong technical writing and presentation abilities.
• Experience managing projects and leading cross-functional teams remotely.
• A dedicated home office setup with reliable high-speed internet access is required.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• As a fully remote position, you benefit from the flexibility and work-life balance that comes with working from anywhere.
• Our client provides excellent opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and advancement within a global organization.
• You will have access to cutting-edge digital tools and resources to support your work and collaboration.
• We are committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative remote work culture where your contributions are recognized and valued.
• Experience the freedom and impact of a remote-leading chemical engineering career.