Senior Chemical Engineer - Production Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based annual bonus

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Paid time off

Team-building activities

Opportunity to impact company growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer based in Pretoria to lead production optimization initiatives. You will apply data analytics, process modeling, and SPC to drive throughput, reduce waste, and cut costs while maintaining safety and quality across the plant.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelors in Chemical Engineering (Master's preferred), with 6+ years of experience and proficiency in Aspen Plus or HYSYS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in chemical process engineering focused on production optimization.
• Experience in data analysis, SPC, and process modeling.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus or HYSYS.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to influence operations.
• Based in Pretoria or willing to relocate to Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Analyze production data to identify inefficiencies and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize chemical processes, increase throughput, and reduce waste.
• Use process simulation software to model and test optimization scenarios.
• Collaborate with plant managers and staff to implement changes effectively.
• Develop KPIs to monitor optimization success.
• Conduct root cause analysis for deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Provide technical training and support on optimized processes.
• Stay updated on advances in optimization technologies and methodologies.
• Prepare detailed reports on performance, efficiency gains, and cost savings.
• Ensure all changes meet safety and quality standards.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical process control

Process modeling

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing chemical manufacturing firm, is seeking an experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to focus on Production Optimization, based in Pretoria, Gauteng . This role is essential for driving efficiency improvements, cost reductions, and enhancing the overall performance of our manufacturing operations. The successful candidate will leverage advanced data analytics, process modeling, and operational expertise to identify and implement best practices. You will be a key technical advisor, working closely with production teams to ensure seamless integration of optimized processes. This position offers a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact on the company's bottom line and operational excellence within the strategic hub of Pretoria . We are looking for a forward-thinking engineer who can transform data into actionable insights and drive continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze production data to identify inefficiencies and areas for process improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies for optimizing chemical processes, increasing throughput, and reducing waste.
• Utilize process simulation software to model and test potential optimization scenarios.
• Collaborate with plant managers and operational staff to implement process changes effectively.
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor and track the success of optimization initiatives.
• Conduct root cause analysis for production deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Provide technical training and support to production personnel on optimized processes.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in process optimization technologies and methodologies.
• Prepare detailed reports on process performance, efficiency gains, and cost savings.
• Ensure all implemented changes maintain the highest standards of safety and quality.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Master's degree is an advantage.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a strong focus on production optimization.
• Proven experience in data analysis, statistical process control (SPC), and process modeling.
• Proficiency with simulation software such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS.
• Excellent understanding of chemical manufacturing principles and equipment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence operational teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and drive change initiatives.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Pretoria, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Performance-based annual bonus.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and further education.
• A stimulating work environment focused on innovation and efficiency.
• Flexible working arrangements possible, reflecting the remote nature of some optimization tasks.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Exposure to diverse production challenges and technologies.
• Team-building activities and employee engagement programs.
• Chance to significantly impact company performance and growth.