Remote Senior Petrochemical Process Optimizer

Placements24; East London; Remote; ZAR 1,996,000 - 2,994,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Global health benefits

Retirement savings plans

Performance-based incentives

Professional development opportunities

Fully remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Optimization Engineer for a fully remote role in the global materials manufacturing sector. You will analyze production datasets across sites, design data‑driven strategies to improve yield, reduce waste, and drive cost savings, while collaborating with international teams via virtual channels.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in a quantitative field, 7+ years in process engineering, Six Sigma and DOE, and proficiency with

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years in process engineering with emphasis on optimization and data analysis.
• Proven track record of cost savings and efficiency gains through process improvements.
• Expertise in statistical analysis, Six Sigma methodologies, and DOE (Design of Experiments).
• Proficiency with data analysis/visualization tools (Python/R, Tableau, Power BI).
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is highly desirable.
• Exceptional analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent remote communication, collaboration, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects remotely.

Responsibilities

• Analyze large production datasets to identify trends and bottlenecks across sites.
• Develop data-driven strategies to improve yield, reduce waste, and minimize energy use.
• Apply statistical and DOE methods to diagnose and optimize processes.
• Collaborate remotely with plant engineers, R&D, and operations managers worldwide.
• Design and oversee virtual pilot studies and simulations.
• Maintain robust process documentation and SOPs.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership via virtual channels.
• Stay updated on new technologies in process optimization and data analytics.
• Mentor junior engineers in data analysis and process improvement techniques.
• Champion continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Six Sigma

DOE

Remote communication

Analytical thinking

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical/Industrial Engineering or related field

Tools

Python/R

Tableau

Power BI

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

Remote Senior Process Optimization Engineer

About the Role Our client, a global leader in advanced materials manufacturing, is seeking an exceptional Senior Process Optimization Engineer to join their innovative team on a fully remote basis. This role is designed for a highly motivated and experienced professional who can drive significant improvements in process efficiency, yield, and sustainability from anywhere in the world. You will analyze complex operational data, identify bottlenecks, and develop innovative solutions to enhance our manufacturing processes. This position offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to contribute to strategic decision-making without the need for physical presence at a specific office location. Your expertise will be key in shaping our global operational strategies. Key Responsibilities

• Analyze large datasets from various production sites to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for process optimization.
• Develop and implement data-driven strategies to improve process yield, reduce waste, and minimize energy consumption.
• Utilize advanced statistical methods and process modeling techniques to diagnose and resolve complex operational challenges.
• Collaborate remotely with plant engineers, R&D teams, and operations managers worldwide to implement process improvements.
• Design and oversee virtual pilot studies and simulations to test new process concepts.
• Develop and maintain robust process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practice guides.
• Present findings, recommendations, and project updates to senior leadership and cross-functional teams through virtual channels.
• Stay current with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in process optimization and data analytics.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers in data analysis and process improvement techniques.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across the organization.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process engineering, with a strong emphasis on process optimization and data analysis.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing process improvements that result in measurable cost savings and efficiency gains.
• Expertise in statistical analysis, Six Sigma methodologies, and DOE (Design of Experiments).
• Proficiency with data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Python/R, Tableau, Power BI).
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is highly desirable.
• Exceptional analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent remote communication, collaboration, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a remote setting.
• Must be eligible to work remotely from an approved location.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers an attractive salary, comprehensive global health benefits, retirement savings plans, and performance-based incentives. Our client is committed to fostering a flexible and supportive work environment, offering significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. The role provides the ultimate flexibility to work from your preferred location.