Senior Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 950,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Paid time off and holidays

Wellness initiatives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for its Upington operation in the Northern Cape. The role focuses on optimizing existing processes to improve efficiency, yield and safety, while developing new manufacturing methods and ensuring environmental and safety compliance.

You will lead process design, troubleshooting, pilot-scale tests, and collaborate with R&D, production and safety teams. A MSc/BSc in Chemical Engineering and 7+ years of industrial experience are required; Aspen

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of experience in chemical process engineering.
• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering.
• Proven ability in process optimization and scale-up.
• Experience with P&ID development and HAZOP studies.
• Strong communication and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and improve existing chemical processes for efficiency and sustainability.
• Develop and implement process modifications and optimizations.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new technologies and equipment.
• Oversee pilot-scale experiments and test modifications.
• Maintain process documentation and safety assessments.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with R&D, production, and safety teams.

Skills

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Pilot-scale testing

P&ID development

HAZOP studies

Data analysis

Project management

Team collaboration

Education

B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent specialty chemicals manufacturer, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to join their esteemed operations team in Upington, Northern Cape. This critical role focuses on optimizing existing chemical processes to enhance efficiency, yield, and safety, while also contributing to the development of new manufacturing methods. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in chemical engineering principles, coupled with extensive practical experience in process design, troubleshooting, and implementation within an industrial setting. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path for an individual passionate about driving operational excellence and innovation in chemical manufacturing. You will work within a dynamic team, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and contributing directly to the company's success. We are committed to fostering a safe, collaborative, and professional work environment in Upington, Northern Cape, and providing opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate existing chemical manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
• Develop and implement process modifications and optimizations using sound engineering principles and data analysis.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new process technologies and equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues that arise in the manufacturing process.
• Design and oversee pilot-scale experiments to test process modifications and new technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and safety teams to ensure seamless integration of process improvements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and safety assessments.
• Ensure all processes comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.
• Stay current with advancements in chemical engineering technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical process engineering, preferably within the specialty chemicals or related industry.
• Proven experience in process optimization, scale-up, and troubleshooting in an industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of chemical thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and mass transfer.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is highly desirable.
• Experience with P&ID development and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and safety protocols in chemical manufacturing.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance-based bonuses.
• Paid time off includes annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and conferences, are provided.
• The company promotes a healthy work-life balance and offers various employee wellness initiatives.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.