Remote Lead Chemical Process Engineer - Sustainable Materials

Placements24; Graafwater; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work arrangement

Health insurance and wellness programs

Generous leave allowance

Equipment provided for home office

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Chemical Process Engineer to drive the design, development, and optimization of novel bio-based material processes. Although based in Paarl, Western Cape, the role is remote-first with global collaboration and scale-up responsibilities.

You will lead projects from concept to commercialization, applying green chemistry principles and managing a remote team of engineers and chemists.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in chemical process design, scale-up and optimization, with sustainable/biobased materials focus.
• Proven track record leading complex engineering projects from concept to completion.
• Experience with process modeling software (Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD).
• Strong leadership, communication, and ability to manage a remote team.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of novel chemical processes for sustainable materials, focusing on scalability and environmental impact.
• Perform process simulations, techno-economic analyses, and life cycle assessments for new and existing technologies.
• Create detailed PFDs and P&IDs for pilot and commercial-scale facilities.
• Collaborate with global R&D, product development, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful tech transfer and scale-up.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of engineers and chemists.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Remote team management

Communication

Process modeling

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

CHEMCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is revolutionizing the sustainable materials sector and is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Chemical Process Engineer to join their innovative, remote-first team. Paarl, Western Cape but operating entirely remotely, you will spearhead the design, development, and optimization of cutting‑edge chemical processes for novel bio-based materials. This pivotal role requires a deep understanding of green chemistry principles, advanced process engineering techniques, and a passion for creating environmentally responsible solutions. You will lead projects from concept through to commercialization, working with a global team of experts. If you are a forward-thinking engineer looking to make a significant impact on sustainability from the convenience of your home office, this is the ideal opportunity. Your expertise will be crucial in scaling up innovative technologies to meet growing global demand for eco-friendly products.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of novel chemical processes for sustainable materials, focusing on scalability and environmental impact.
• Conduct rigorous process simulations, techno-economic analyses, and life cycle assessments for new and existing technologies.
• Develop detailed Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) for pilot and commercial-scale facilities.
• Collaborate extensively with R&D, product development, and manufacturing teams located globally to ensure successful technology transfer and scale-up.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of process engineers and chemists, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and lower operational costs.
• Ensure all designs and processes adhere to the highest safety standards and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals for internal stakeholders and external partners.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field from a recognized university.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical process design, scale-up, and optimization, with a significant focus on sustainable or bio-based materials.
• Proven track record of leading complex engineering projects from conception to completion.
• Expertise in process modeling and simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD).
• Strong understanding of green chemistry principles, fermentation, or related biochemical processes is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in HAZOP studies and other process safety methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, essential for managing a remote team and collaborating across functions.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and comfortable working remotely from this region.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Fully remote work arrangement, providing flexibility and work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and impact in the sustainability sector.
• Access to cutting-edge research and development initiatives.
• Company-provided equipment for home office setup.