Senior Process Chemical Engineer - Advanced Materials

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Relocation assistance

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a senior process chemical engineer to lead the design, optimization, and scale‑up of complex chemical processes at its Klerksdorp facility. You will drive process improvements, ensure safety, and oversee pilot and full‑scale operations with a focus on advanced materials.

The role requires a strong theoretical grounding in chemical engineering, hands‑on industrial experience, and the ability to mentor junior engineers in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in process design, development, and operation.
• Experience with process simulation software.
• HAZOP studies and EHS compliance.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.
• Registered professional engineer status is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to improve yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Run process simulations with Aspen Plus and HYSYS.
• Troubleshoot complex industrial process issues.
• Oversee pilot plant and production operations.
• Conduct HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with R&D on scale‑up of novel materials.
• Manage timelines and budgets for process projects.
• Ensure compliance with EHS regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Process design

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Chemical Engineering degree

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Klerksdorp, North West, ZA . This pivotal role will involve the design, optimization, and scale-up of complex chemical processes for the production of advanced materials. You will be instrumental in driving process improvements, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical understanding of chemical engineering principles combined with practical, hands‑on experience in industrial settings. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects and advance your career within a forward‑thinking organization dedicated to sustainable chemical manufacturing and technological advancement. The role is based in our client's state‑of‑the‑art facility, offering a collaborative and stimulating work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, design, and implement new chemical processes and optimize existing ones to enhance yield, purity, and efficiency.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using industry‑standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational issues related to chemical reactions, separations, and equipment.
• Oversee pilot plant and full‑scale production operations, ensuring adherence to design specifications and safety protocols.
• Perform hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies and risk assessments for new and existing processes.
• Collaborate with R&D teams on process development and scale‑up activities for novel materials.
• Manage project timelines and budgets for process engineering initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to operations personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process design, development, and operation within the chemical or related industries.
• Proven track record in process optimization, scale‑up, and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, kinetics, and mass transfer.
• Experience with HAZOP analysis and EHS compliance.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented environment.
• Experience in advanced materials or specialty chemicals is highly desirable.
• Registered professional engineer status is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a competitive salary, performance‑based bonuses, medical aid, provident fund, and opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates.