Senior Process Development Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 950,000 - 1,250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Development Chemical Engineer to lead optimization and scale-up of chemical processes in Pietermaritzburg. You will evaluate new technologies, design scalable workflows, and collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure safe and efficient production.

The role emphasizes process simulation, safety compliance, and mentoring of junior engineers within a dynamic specialty chemicals environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in process development, optimization, or scale-up within the chemical industry.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience in HAZOP studies and risk assessment methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in technical report writing and presentation.
• Experience in the specialty chemicals sector is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and scale-up chemical processes from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic assessments for new process technologies.
• Optimize existing manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and validate process control strategies.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless process implementation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, PFDs, and P&IDs.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Process Development Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg. This is a critical role focused on optimizing existing chemical processes and developing new, sustainable manufacturing methodologies. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, product quality, and safety standards across our client's operations. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects within a supportive and forward-thinking environment. The Pietermaritzburg location provides a vibrant community with access to natural beauty and a growing industrial sector, making it an ideal place to build your career.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and scale-up chemical processes from laboratory to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic assessments for new process technologies.
• Optimize existing manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and validate process control strategies.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless process implementation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams), and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams).
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in process development, optimization, or scale-up within the chemical industry.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of unit operations, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Experience with HAZOP studies and risk assessment methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in technical report writing and presentation.
• Experience in the specialty chemicals sector is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health insurance, retirement plan options, and opportunities for professional development and advancement. This role is based in Pietermaritzburg, offering a unique lifestyle balance. Employees can also take advantage of ongoing training programs and a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and personal growth. Relocation assistance may be considered for highly qualified candidates. Join a company committed to excellence and sustainable practices.