Senior Pharmaceutical Process Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Flexible hours

Professional development

Global team

Health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Process Engineer to join a globally distributed, fully remote team. You will optimize, validate, and troubleshoot GMP-compliant pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, across multiple platforms, leveraging Aspen Plus and process automation to improve yield, reduce costs, and ensure robust production.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in pharma/biotech process engineering, strong communication, and proven remote-work effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in process engineering in pharma/biotech.
• Strong GMP knowledge and experience with IQ/OQ/PQ.
• Experience with process automation and control systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to work remotely.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement manufacturing processes compliant with GMP.
• Optimize processes to improve yield, efficiency, and reduce costs.
• Lead IQ/OQ/PQ validation activities for new and modified equipment.
• Troubleshoot deviations and equipment failures; identify root causes.
• Develop process documentation (PFDs, P&IDs, SOPs, batch records).
• Conduct process hazard analyses and implement safety measures.
• Evaluate and select new manufacturing technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D and pilot plant for tech transfer.
• Provide technical support and training to manufacturing staff.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and regulatory changes.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Communication skills

Independent work

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Process Engineer to join their globally distributed operations. This fully remote position empowers you to leverage your expertise in optimizing and troubleshooting pharmaceutical manufacturing processes from your home office. You will be instrumental in ensuring the efficiency, scalability, and robustness of our client's production lines, contributing to the consistent delivery of high-quality medicines. Your responsibilities will span process design, validation, optimization, and troubleshooting across various manufacturing technologies. This role requires a deep understanding of GMP, process automation, and a strong analytical mindset to address complex engineering challenges. You will collaborate extensively with manufacturing teams, quality assurance, R&D, and external vendors, all within a virtual framework that prioritizes clear communication and proactive problem-solving. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, capable of driving projects independently while fostering strong remote working relationships to achieve critical production goals. Your contributions will directly impact the quality and accessibility of essential pharmaceuticals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement innovative manufacturing processes for pharmaceutical products, ensuring compliance with GMP and other regulatory standards.
• Optimize existing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, yield, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Lead process validation activities, including IQ, OQ, and PQ, for new and modified equipment and processes.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and equipment failures, identifying root causes and implementing effective corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, SOPs, and batch records.
• Conduct process hazard analyses and implement safety measures to ensure a safe working environment.
• Evaluate and select new manufacturing technologies and equipment.
• Collaborate with R&D and pilot plant teams to support technology transfer from laboratory to commercial scale.
• Provide technical support and training to manufacturing personnel.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Proven expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes (e.g., granulation, tablet compression, sterile filling, lyophilization).
• Strong understanding of GMP, validation principles (IQ/OQ/PQ), and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with process automation and control systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus) is highly desirable.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively manage projects in a fully remote setting.
• Experience with continuous manufacturing technologies is an advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package reflecting extensive experience and expertise.
• Fully remote working arrangement, offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement.
• Direct impact on the successful production of critical medicines.
• Flexible working hours to support a healthy work-life balance.
• Access to cutting-edge process engineering tools and resources.
• A collaborative and innovative global team environment.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.