Senior Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Pension fund contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Development Engineer for Johannesburg to optimize chemical processes and develop scalable, sustainable manufacturing methods. You will lead feasibility studies, pilot plant trials, and process scale‑up, mentoring junior engineers while enforcing safety, quality and regulatory standards.

This hybrid role offers a competitive package, medical aid, pension fund contributions and ample opportunities for professional development within a leading chemical

Qualifications

• Degree in chemical engineering or related field.
• Master's degree preferred for senior level.
• Minimum 7 years in process development and optimization.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to improve efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot plant trials for new process technologies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues in a manufacturing environment.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and engineering teams to ensure seamless process scale-up and implementation.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and safety protocols.
• Implement process control strategies and instrumentation to ensure stable and efficient operations.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement and cost reduction.
• Ensure all processes comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Process optimization

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

B.Eng/B.Sc in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the chemical manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Process Development Engineer to join their dynamic team in Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA . This role is critical for optimizing existing chemical processes and developing new, efficient, and sustainable manufacturing methods. The successful candidate will possess a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, a passion for problem-solving, and a proven ability to drive process improvements from concept to implementation. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated engineer to contribute to cutting-edge projects within a thriving industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to improve efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot plant trials for new process technologies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues in a manufacturing environment.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and engineering teams to ensure seamless process scale-up and implementation.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and safety protocols.
• Implement process control strategies and instrumentation to ensure stable and efficient operations.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement and cost reduction.
• Ensure all processes comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• B.Eng/B.Sc in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process development and optimization within the chemical industry.
• Proven track record in designing and scaling up chemical processes.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of safety regulations (e.g., HAZOP studies) and environmental compliance.
• Experience with hybrid work models, demonstrating ability to manage tasks effectively both remotely and on-site.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, with an annual remuneration of ZAR , commensurate with your expertise and experience. This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring essential on-site collaboration. Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid, pension fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading chemical company. Join a forward-thinking organization at the forefront of chemical innovation in Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA .