Senior Chemical Engineer - Specialty Chemicals

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Hybrid work arrangement

On-site facility in Stellenbosch

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer to advance R&D and production capabilities for high-performance specialty chemicals in Stellenbosch. The role emphasizes process innovation, scale-up, and optimization across a range of cutting-edge products in a hybrid work setting.

You will lead process development, conduct pilot trials, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, mentor junior staff, and help translate lab findings into scalable, compliant manufacturing processes within a dynamic, global

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and manufacturing within the specialty chemicals sector.
• Proven experience with various chemical unit operations and reaction engineering.
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen Plus and Chemcad.
• Strong understanding of safety principles and environmental compliance in chemical manufacturing.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead process development and optimization initiatives for new and existing specialty chemical products.
• Conduct pilot plant trials, analyze data, and develop robust scale-up strategies.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions to improve yield and efficiency.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and engineers to translate laboratory findings into viable commercial processes.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and batch records.
• Ensure all processes comply with stringent safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process improvement.
• Participate in project teams, contributing chemical engineering expertise to new product introductions.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Reaction engineering

Unit operations

Process simulation

Safety & compliance

Analytical thinking

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Chemcad

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance specialty chemicals, is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer to enhance their research and development and production capabilities. This role will be based in the vibrant academic and industrial hub of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , with a hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility. You will play a key role in process innovation, scale-up, and optimization for a range of cutting-edge chemical products. The successful candidate will leverage their deep technical expertise to solve complex challenges, improve manufacturing efficiency, and ensure product quality meets the highest industry standards. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of chemical innovation and contribute significantly to product development and commercialization. We are looking for an individual with a passion for chemistry and a drive for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead process development and optimization initiatives for new and existing specialty chemical products.
• Conduct pilot plant trials, analyze data, and develop robust scale-up strategies.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions to improve yield and efficiency.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists and engineers to translate laboratory findings into viable commercial processes.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and batch records.
• Ensure all processes comply with stringent safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process improvement.
• Participate in project teams, contributing chemical engineering expertise to new product introductions.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and manufacturing within the specialty chemicals sector.
• Proven experience with various chemical unit operations and reaction engineering.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, Chemcad).
• Strong understanding of safety principles and environmental compliance in chemical manufacturing.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote work with on-site collaboration in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, and a robust retirement savings plan.
• We support continuous learning and professional development through access to training, conferences, and advanced degree programs.
• This hybrid role provides the flexibility of remote work combined with the collaborative benefits of on-site engagement at our modern facility in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• We foster an innovative and inclusive work culture where talent is recognized and career growth is encouraged.
• Enjoy ample paid time off and a healthy work-life balance.
• Join a team that is shaping the future of specialty chemicals.