Senior Chemical Engineer, Downstream Processing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Performance bonuses

Stock options

Professional development opportunities

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a biotechnology firm in Port Elizabeth, seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in downstream processing to design, optimize, and scale purification for biologics. You will lead chromatography, filtration, and viral inactivation steps, scale from lab to pilot and production, and implement GMP-compliant methods while collaborating with R&D, analytics and manufacturing.

Candidates hold an MSc/PhD in Chemical or Biochemical Engineering with 6+ years of downstream

Qualifications

• MSc/PhD in Chemical or Biochemical Engineering.
• 6+ years in biopharmaceutical downstream processing.
• Expertise in chromatography and filtration techniques.
• Experience with GMP validation principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and optimize downstream processing trains for biologics, including chromatography, filtration and viral inactivation steps.
• Scale-up purification processes from lab to pilot and commercial manufacturing.
• Develop and validate purification methods per GMP guidelines.
• Troubleshoot downstream processing equipment and operations.
• Perform process modeling and simulation to identify improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for technology transfer and implementation.
• Stay updated on industry trends in downstream processing.
• Contribute to continuous improvement to reduce costs.

Skills

Biopharmaceutical downstream

Chromatography

Process modeling

Education

MSc/PhD in Chemical Engineering or Biochemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a biotechnology firm at the forefront of developing novel biopharmaceuticals, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in Downstream Processing. This role, based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , will be instrumental in designing, optimizing, and scaling up purification processes for biologics. You will work with cutting-edge technologies to ensure the highest purity and yield of therapeutic products. This is an exciting opportunity to join a rapidly growing company with a strong pipeline and a commitment to innovation. The position involves close collaboration with R&D, analytical, and manufacturing teams to translate laboratory-scale purification methods into robust, commercial-scale operations. We are looking for a motivated individual who thrives in a challenging and rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize downstream processing trains for biologics, including chromatography, filtration, and viral inactivation steps.
• Scale-up purification processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial manufacturing scales.
• Develop and validate purification methods in accordance with regulatory guidelines (e.g., GMP).
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to downstream processing equipment and operations.
• Perform process modeling and simulation to predict performance and identify optimization opportunities.
• Write detailed process descriptions, URS, FRS, and execution protocols.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful technology transfer and process implementation.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in biopharmaceutical downstream processing.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of existing processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant quality, safety, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in biopharmaceutical downstream processing.
• Proven expertise in various purification techniques such as chromatography (e.g., Protein A, ion exchange, HIC) and filtration (e.g., TFF, sterile filtration).
• Experience with process simulation and modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of GMP regulations and validation principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in project management and technical documentation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience with single-use technologies is a plus.
• Ability to adapt to a hybrid work model, balancing remote analysis with essential on-site duties in Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, performance bonuses, and stock options.
• You will have opportunities for professional development, including attendance at key industry conferences and specialized training programs.
• We provide a dynamic and supportive work environment where innovation is encouraged, and contributions are recognized.
• Be part of a mission-driven organization focused on improving human health through cutting-edge biotechnology in Port Elizabeth .