Remote Senior Chemical Engineer - Specialty Chemicals Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Home office budget

Professional development

Patent contributions

Career growth opportunities

Diversity & inclusion

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Chemical Engineer for a fully remote role with global responsibilities in specialty chemicals. You will drive research, development, and scale-up of novel processes, leading cross-functional teams and coordinating with international partners.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry, 8+ years in process development and scale-up, and strong expertise in reaction engineering, process design, and simulations.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry.
• 8+ years in process development and scale-up within specialty chemicals.
• Experience with organic synthesis, reaction engineering and process design.
• Proficient in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD) and statistics.
• Strong analytical skills (GC, HPLC, NMR, MS) for process monitoring.
• Excellent PM skills with track record of leading complex R&D projects.
• Remote work capable with superb communication in international teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of processes for specialty chemical synthesis and manufacturing.
• Conduct research into new chemical reactions, materials, and process technologies.
• Manage projects from concept to pilot scale and commercial production.
• Perform process simulations, scale-up calculations, and techno-economic assessments.
• Develop process documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, batch records, and safety protocols.
• Oversee lab and pilot plant experiments and make data-driven recommendations.
• Collaborate with R&D, product management, and manufacturing for tech transfer.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance yield, purity, safety, and sustainability.
• Stay updated on literature, patents, and trends in specialty chemicals.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and chemists.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Organic synthesis

Reaction engineering

Process design

Process simulation

Statistical analysis

Analytical techniques

Project management

Communication

Autonomy (remote work)

Education

PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry

Tools

Aspen Plus

CHEMCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of specialty chemicals and is actively seeking a highly accomplished Senior Chemical Engineer to join their innovative, fully remote team. This position is crucial for driving the research, development, and scale-up of novel chemical products and processes. As a remote-first organization, we empower our engineers with the flexibility to work from any location, fostering a global talent pool and a results-oriented culture. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in specialty chemical synthesis, process design, and optimization, coupled with strong leadership and project management capabilities. You will collaborate with a diverse, international team of scientists and engineers, pushing the boundaries of chemical innovation. This role demands a proactive and self-motivated individual who can thrive in an independent work environment while maintaining exceptional communication and teamwork. We are committed to providing a challenging and stimulating career path, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and contribution to groundbreaking projects. Join a company that values expertise and provides the freedom to innovate from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of processes for specialty chemical synthesis and manufacturing.
• Conduct in-depth research into new chemical reactions, materials, and process technologies.
• Manage projects from conceptualization through to pilot scale and commercial production, ensuring timely and budget-conscious execution.
• Perform rigorous process simulations, scale-up calculations, and techno-economic assessments.
• Develop comprehensive process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, batch records, and safety protocols.
• Oversee and participate in laboratory and pilot plant experiments, analyzing results and making data-driven recommendations.
• Collaborate with R&D, product management, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and commercialization.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance yield, purity, safety, and sustainability.
• Stay abreast of scientific literature, patents, and emerging trends in specialty chemicals.
• Provide technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineers and chemists.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry.
• 8+ years of experience in process development and scale-up within the specialty chemicals sector.
• Proven expertise in organic synthesis, reaction engineering, and chemical process design.
• Demonstrated experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD) and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of analytical techniques (GC, HPLC, NMR, MS) and their application in process monitoring.
• Excellent project management skills, with a track record of successfully leading complex R&D projects.
• Exceptional problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, suitable for a global, remote team.
• Ability to work autonomously, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results in a remote setting.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis (HAZOP) is essential.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for chemical products.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a top-tier salary, bonus structure, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• This remote position provides exceptional flexibility and autonomy.
• We offer a significant budget for home office setup and professional development, including access to cutting-edge online learning platforms, industry conferences, and opportunities for patent contributions.
• Career advancement within a leading global innovator is a key focus.
• Our client champions a diverse and inclusive work environment, supporting employees regardless of their location.
• Join our forward-thinking team and contribute to the future of specialty chemicals from the comfort of your home office, making a global impact.