Remote Senior Chemical Process Engineer - Bulk Chemicals Focus

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Home office budget

Professional development

Remote collaboration culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Process Engineer for a remote-first role supporting global bulk chemical production. You will lead process design, optimization, and safety assessments, leveraging your expertise to improve throughput, yield, and energy efficiency across large-scale operations.

You will collaborate with international teams, refine P&IDs and PFDs, mentor junior engineers remotely, and deliver detailed technical reports to senior management.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from a recognized university.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in chemical process engineering for bulk production.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software and data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of safety, environmental practices and plant operations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for remote collaboration.
• Experience with international project execution is essential.
• PE or equivalent certification is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead process design, development, and improvement for large-scale bulk chemical manufacturing.
• Analyze and optimize processes to improve throughput, yield and energy efficiency.
• Refine P&IDs, PFDs and process documentation.
• Conduct safety assessments including HAZOP and ensure compliance.
• Coordinate virtually with cross-functional teams across time zones.
• Provide technical guidance and support to global plant operations.
• Manage project timelines, resources and budgets for improvements.
• Evaluate new technologies and methodologies.
• Mentor junior engineers remotely and share knowledge.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to senior management.

Skills

Remote collaboration

Independent work

Problem solving

Project management

Education

MSc or PhD in Chemical Eng

Tools

Aspen Plus

Pro/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in the production of essential bulk chemicals, is seeking an exceptional Senior Chemical Process Engineer to join their expanding, remote-first team. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in process optimization and design from the comfort of your home office. You will play a critical role in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our client's large-scale chemical manufacturing processes worldwide. This position demands a proactive, self-motivated individual with a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles and a passion for driving operational excellence. You will collaborate extensively with international teams, contributing to significant projects that shape the future of chemical production. We value innovation, collaboration, and a results-oriented approach, offering a fully remote work environment that empowers our engineers to thrive. Your contributions will directly impact the quality and cost-effectiveness of vital chemical products used across various industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead process design, development, and improvement initiatives for large-scale bulk chemical manufacturing.
• Conduct in-depth process analysis, troubleshooting, and optimization to enhance throughput, yield, and energy efficiency.
• Develop and refine P&IDs, PFDs, and other critical process documentation.
• Perform rigorous safety assessments, including HAZOP studies, and ensure compliance with global EHS standards.
• Collaborate virtually with cross-functional teams (operations, R&D, project management) across different time zones.
• Provide expert technical guidance and support to plant operations teams globally.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for process improvement projects.
• Research and evaluate new technologies and methodologies to improve chemical processes.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers remotely, fostering professional growth and knowledge sharing.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and present findings to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from a recognized university.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in chemical process engineering, with a strong focus on bulk chemical production.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Pro/II) and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated success in optimizing complex chemical processes and implementing significant improvements.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical plant operations, safety regulations, and environmental best practices.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a strategic approach to process challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adapted for remote collaboration.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Experience with international project execution and cross-cultural team collaboration is essential.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with excellent annual bonus potential.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Budget for home office setup and ongoing professional development (conferences, courses, certifications).
• Opportunity to work with a leading global company on impactful projects without the need for relocation.
• A supportive and inclusive remote work culture that values work-life balance.
• Access to advanced simulation and digital tools.