Senior Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization (Remote)

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive health and wellness

Remote work flexibility

Generous paid time off

International conferences & training

Retirement savings plan

Access to R&D resources

Dynamic company culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for a fully remote role supporting a Mossel Bay–area biotech partner. You will optimize existing processes, develop scalable technologies, and leverage advanced modeling to boost yield, reduce energy use, and minimize waste.

Applicants should hold a Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering with 7+ years in process engineering, expertise in Aspen HYSYS and PRO/II, and strong data analytics skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering with emphasis on optimization and scale-up.
• Expertise in process simulation and modeling software.
• Proven experience in data analysis, SPC, and DOE.
• Strong understanding of kinetics, thermodynamics and mass transfer.
• Experience in biotechnology or biochemical engineering is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical and communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead projects and work in remote teams.
• Familiarity with Mossel Bay area is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead process optimization initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Develop and validate process models using simulation software.
• Analyze large plant operation datasets to identify trends.
• Design and oversee pilot plant experiments for validation and scale-up.
• Collaborate with R&D to translate lab data into industrial processes.
• Implement advanced process control strategies.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments for new technologies.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance in designs.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Design of Experiments

Statistical Process Control

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding biotechnology firm specializing in sustainable chemical production, is looking for a highly motivated Senior Chemical Engineer to join their team on a fully remote basis. This position will focus on optimizing existing processes and developing innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and sustainability, with a strategic link to their operations near Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The successful candidate will leverage advanced modeling techniques, data analytics, and deep chemical engineering expertise to drive significant improvements in yield, energy consumption, and waste reduction. This role requires a proactive individual with a strong background in process development and optimization, capable of working independently and collaborating effectively with virtual teams. We seek a candidate who is passionate about green chemistry and eager to contribute to the forefront of sustainable industrial practices. Your role will be pivotal in scaling up new technologies and ensuring our processes remain competitive and environmentally responsible. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned engineer to make a substantial impact from a remote location, influencing key operational decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead process optimization initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Develop and validate process models using simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Analyze large datasets from plant operations to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Design and oversee pilot plant experiments for process validation and scale-up.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to translate laboratory findings into viable industrial processes.
• Implement advanced process control strategies.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments for new process technologies.
• Ensure all process designs and modifications comply with safety and environmental regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on optimization projects.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and present findings to management.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on optimization and scale-up.
• Expertise in process simulation and modeling software.
• Proven experience in data analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and design of experiments (DOE).Strong understanding of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass transfer.
• Experience in biotechnology or biochemical engineering is a significant plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Familiarity with the industrial landscape around Mossel Bay, Western Cape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Stock options and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Remote work flexibility with support for home office setup.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for international conferences and training.
• Contribution to innovative and sustainable chemical solutions.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Access to cutting-edge research and development resources.
• A dynamic and forward-thinking company culture.