Senior Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Professional development support

Contract role with extension potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Development Engineer for a fully remote position that supports our Durban, KwaZulu-Natal operations. You will drive development from lab to scalable manufacturing, focusing on innovative chemical processes, optimization, and technology transfer.

The role requires a PhD or Master’s in Chemical Engineering with 8+ years in process development, scale-up, and process simulation. Collaboration with R&D, engineering, and production teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• 8+ years in process development, scale-up and optimization in the chemical industry.
• Proven track record in developing and commercializing new chemical processes.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, ChemCAD) and statistical analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of new chemical processes from bench to commercial scale.
• Conduct process design, including mass/energy balances, PFDs and P&IDs.
• Perform process modeling and simulation to predict performance and opportunities.
• Develop and execute experimental plans for lab and pilot studies.
• Analyze data; draw conclusions and recommend improvements.
• Ensure processes are safe, environmentally sound, and economically viable.
• Prepare technical reports, summaries, and disclosures; support tech transfer and scale-up.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Process modeling

Aspen Plus

ChemCAD

Project management

Statistical analysis

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

ChemCAD

PFDs & PIDs

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking chemical manufacturing firm, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Process Development Engineer for a remote position, serving operations based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role focuses on the research, development, and optimization of innovative chemical processes. You will be instrumental in translating laboratory discoveries into robust, scalable manufacturing solutions, driving efficiency and sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical reactions, separation technologies, and process intensification. This is a fully remote role, offering flexibility while requiring a results-oriented approach. You will work closely with our R&D teams, engineering departments, and production staff to ensure seamless integration and successful implementation of new processes. Your contributions will be vital in maintaining our client's position at the forefront of chemical innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of new chemical processes from bench-scale to pilot and commercial scale.


• Conduct detailed process design, including mass and energy balances, PFDs, and P&IDs.


• Perform process modeling and simulation using advanced software tools to predict performance and identify optimization opportunities.


• Develop and execute experimental plans for laboratory and pilot plant studies.


• Analyze experimental data, draw conclusions, and make recommendations for process improvements.


• Ensure all developed processes are safe, environmentally sound, and economically viable.


• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, research summaries, and patent disclosures.


• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure smooth technology transfer and effective scale-up.


• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in chemical engineering and process technology.


• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical growth of the team.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a related field.


• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical industry.


• Proven track record in developing and commercializing new chemical processes.


• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD) and statistical analysis tools.


• Strong knowledge of reaction engineering, separations, and process safety principles.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.


• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently in a remote setting.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective reporting and collaboration.


• Familiarity with process analytical technology (PAT) and automation is a plus.


• Experience with flow chemistry or microreactor technology is desirable.

Benefits

This remote position offers a competitive contract rate and the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and development projects with a leading chemical company. Our client provides support for professional development, including access to online courses and virtual conferences. While the role is remote, you will be an integral part of a collaborative and innovative team. This contract role offers a substantial engagement period with the potential for extension based on performance and project needs, serving our operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.