Senior Chemical Process Engineer - Polymer Production

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with bonuses

Extensive medical aid coverage

Generous annual leave

Opportunities for international培训

Company pension scheme

Relocation package to George

Access to advanced laboratory and pil

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Process Engineer for its George, Western Cape location. You will lead end-to-end process development for advanced polymer production, driving scale-up and optimization across projects.

The role demands a strong analytical mindset, publication-ready documentation, and the ability to mentor junior engineers within a collaborative team. George offers a dynamic environment with opportunities for international training and growth.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering required.
• 8+ years of chemical process engineering experience, with polymer production focus.
• Strong design, simulation and scale-up capabilities.
• Experience with PSM/HAZOP methodologies and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of new polymer production processes for scalability and cost-effectiveness.
• Optimize existing processes to improve yield, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Develop and validate process models and simulations to predict performance.
• Oversee commissioning and startup of new equipment and plant modifications.
• Mentor and lead a team of process engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations.

Skills

Process design

Simulation

Scale-up

PSM & HAZOP

Leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Independent work

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the advanced materials sector, is looking for a highly skilled Senior Chemical Process Engineer to join their expanding operations in **George, Western Cape**. This role is crucial for driving innovation and efficiency in the production of specialized polymers. You will be responsible for the end-to-end process development, optimization, and scale-up of complex chemical manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mindset, a proven track record in polymer process engineering, and a passion for tackling challenging technical problems. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead critical projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute significantly to the company's growth and technological advancement. This exciting opportunity is located in the scenic region of **George, Western Cape**. This role demands a blend of hands-on problem-solving and strategic process improvement, working within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new chemical processes for polymer production, ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness.
• Optimize existing manufacturing processes to enhance yield, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
• Develop and validate process models and simulations to predict process performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Oversee the commissioning and startup of new process equipment and plant modifications.
• Conduct detailed process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement robust safety protocols.
• Collaborate closely with the Research and Development team to translate laboratory innovations into viable industrial processes.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of process engineers and technicians.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and implement long-term solutions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage process engineering projects from conception through to completion, including budget and timeline management.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a significant focus on polymer production.
• Demonstrated expertise in process design, simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD), and scale-up.
• In-depth knowledge of polymer chemistry, reaction kinetics, and separation processes.
• Proven experience with process safety management (PSM) and HAZOP methodologies.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical process control (SPC).
• Must have legal authorization to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Extensive medical aid coverage and wellness programs.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Opportunities for international training and conference participation.
• Company-sponsored pension scheme.
• Relocation package for candidates relocating to **George, Western Cape**.
• Access to advanced laboratory facilities and pilot plants.