Senior Chemical Engineer - Product Development

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health & retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Relocation assistance

Training & education programs

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in Product Development. You will lead the creation of new chemical products, oversee lab development, pilot plant trials, and smooth transfer to full-scale manufacturing.

The role requires a strong blend of scientific knowledge, practical engineering skills, and a creative mindset to drive product innovation. On-site position with growth opportunities and a collaborative culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in product development or process engineering within the chemical industry.
• Proven track record in developing new chemical products or improving existing ones.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles, materials science, and formulation techniques.
• Experience with laboratory equipment, pilot plant operations, and analytical techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and formulation of new chemical products from concept to commercialization.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments and pilot plant studies for product validation.
• Optimize product formulations and manufacturing processes for cost-effectiveness and performance.
• Analyze product performance data and troubleshoot development or production issues.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, marketing, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, specifications, and documentation for new products.
• Ensure products comply with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Support scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing facilities.
• Stay informed about market trends and customer needs.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians involved in product development projects.

Skills

Cross-functional teamwork

Analytical mindset

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Process simulation

Data analysis

Pilot plant equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative chemical company, is seeking an experienced Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in Product Development to join their esteemed team in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is integral to the creation and refinement of new chemical products, ensuring they meet market demands, quality standards, and production feasibility. You will be involved in laboratory development, pilot plant trials, and supporting the seamless transition of new products to full-scale manufacturing. The ideal candidate possesses a strong blend of scientific knowledge, practical engineering skills, and a creative mindset. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to product innovation and growth within a supportive and progressive organization located in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and formulation of new chemical products from concept to commercialization.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments and pilot plant studies for product validation.
• Optimize product formulations and manufacturing processes for cost-effectiveness and performance.
• Analyze product performance data and troubleshoot any development or production issues.
• Collaborate closely with R&D chemists, marketing, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, specifications, and documentation for new products.
• Ensure products comply with all relevant safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Support the scale-up process and technology transfer to manufacturing facilities.
• Stay informed about market trends, customer needs, and competitive product offerings.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians involved in product development projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in product development, process engineering, or a related field within the chemical industry.
• Proven experience in developing new chemical products or improving existing ones.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles, material science, and formulation techniques.
• Experience with laboratory equipment, pilot plant operations, and analytical techniques.
• Proficiency in process simulation and data analysis is beneficial.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects.
• Commitment to working on-site in East London, Eastern Cape .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• A dynamic and innovative work environment focused on creating new solutions.
• Exposure to diverse product lines and advanced technologies.
• Company-sponsored training and educational programs.
• Collaborative team culture and employee engagement initiatives.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• Chance to shape the future product portfolio of the company.