Senior Process Chemist

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Health and wellness benefits

Professional development funding

Access to advanced process development

Collaborative work culture

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa's Paarl is seeking a Senior Process Chemist to join the Process Development team. You will optimize and scale-up synthesis routes, transfer technology to manufacturing, and drive safety and efficiency across complex chemical processes.

The role requires advanced degrees and 5+ years in process development, with hands-on equipment experience and a strong background in green chemistry.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on chemistry.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development and scale-up within the chemical or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven expertise in organic synthesis, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Hands-on experience with process equipment, including reactors, distillation units, and filtration systems.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles related to mass transfer, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics.
• Experience in conducting Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implementing safety protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a laboratory and plant environment in Paarl, Western Cape.
• Knowledge of green chemistry principles and sustainable process development is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up chemical synthesis routes for new and existing products, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct laboratory experiments to evaluate process parameters, identify critical control points, and mitigate potential hazards.
• Design and execute pilot plant trials, troubleshoot issues, and ensure smooth technology transfer to manufacturing.
• Perform process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement appropriate safety measures.
• Utilize process analytical technology (PAT) and statistical process control (SPC) to monitor and improve manufacturing operations.
• Analyze process data and generate comprehensive reports, including recommendations for optimization and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, chemical engineers, and production teams to ensure successful process implementation.
• Stay current with advancements in process chemistry, green chemistry, and manufacturing technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Education

MSc or PhD in Organic Chemistry or Process Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process equipment operation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced Senior Process Chemist to join their Process Development team. This critical role is based at our advanced manufacturing and R&D site in Paarl, Western Cape . You will be instrumental in optimizing existing chemical processes and developing new, scalable, and cost-effective manufacturing methods for a range of specialty chemicals. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in organic synthesis, process chemistry, scale-up, and a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles. We are looking for a hands‑on, problem‑solving individual who can translate laboratory‑scale innovations into robust industrial production. This is a prime opportunity to contribute to operational efficiency and product innovation within a well‑established organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale-up chemical synthesis routes for new and existing products, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct laboratory experiments to evaluate process parameters, identify critical control points, and mitigate potential hazards.
• Design and execute pilot plant trials, troubleshoot issues, and ensure smooth technology transfer to manufacturing.
• Perform process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement appropriate safety measures.
• Utilize process analytical technology (PAT) and statistical process control (SPC) to monitor and improve manufacturing operations.
• Analyze process data and generate comprehensive reports, including recommendations for optimization and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with R&D chemists, chemical engineers, and production teams to ensure successful process implementation.
• Stay current with advancements in process chemistry, green chemistry, and manufacturing technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering with a strong focus on chemistry.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development and scale-up within the chemical or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven expertise in organic synthesis, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Hands‑on experience with process equipment, including reactors, distillation units, and filtration systems.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles related to mass transfer, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics.
• Experience in conducting Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implementing safety protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a laboratory and plant environment in Paarl, Western Cape .
• Knowledge of green chemistry principles and sustainable process development is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a performance‑based bonus scheme.
• We provide excellent opportunities for professional development, including funding for external training, workshops, and conference participation.
• Employees benefit from access to advanced process development laboratories, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to work on impactful projects that drive business growth.
• Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.

Join our team in Paarl and contribute to the innovation and efficiency of our chemical manufacturing processes.