Senior Process Development Chemical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical plan

Retirement plans

Generous PTO

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Development Chemical Engineer in Randburg, Gauteng. The role focuses on designing, optimizing, and scaling novel chemical processes from lab to manufacturing with a hybrid work arrangement.

The candidate will lead process development activities, conduct simulations and economic evaluations, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring safety and efficient operations in a dynamic team.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in chemical engineering required.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in chemical process development and scale-up.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of chemical processes from bench to scale.
• Perform feasibility studies, simulations, and economic evaluations.
• Design process equipment such as reactors, distillation columns, heat exchangers, and pumps.
• Develop control strategies and troubleshoot to improve yield and throughput.
• Create PFDs, P&IDs, and operating procedures.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing and projects teams for smooth transfer.
• Conduct PHAs and implement safety measures.
• Mentor junior engineers and stay updated on new technologies.

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Development Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Randburg, Gauteng. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to contribute to the design, optimization, and scale-up of novel chemical processes. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in translating laboratory innovations into robust, commercially viable manufacturing operations. We are looking for someone with a passion for problem-solving and a proven track record in chemical process engineering. This role involves a hybrid work arrangement, offering flexibility while ensuring collaborative engagement with on-site teams. You will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement and ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency in all process-related activities. This position offers significant opportunities for professional growth within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of chemical processes from bench scale to pilot and commercial scale.
• Conduct feasibility studies, process simulations, and economic evaluations for new and existing processes.
• Design and specify process equipment, including reactors, distillation columns, heat exchangers, and pumps.
• Develop process control strategies and troubleshoot operational issues to improve yield, quality, and throughput.
• Prepare detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and operating procedures.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and project teams to ensure seamless process transfer and implementation.
• Conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implement necessary safety measures.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in chemical engineering technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in chemical process development, scale-up, and manufacturing.
• Demonstrated expertise in process design, simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS), and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, reaction kinetics, and mass transfer.
• Proven experience with Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience in the specialty chemicals or pharmaceutical industry is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, medical and retirement plans, generous paid time off, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates. Join a company that values innovation, collaboration, and employee well-being in the vibrant city of Randburg, Gauteng.