Senior Process Development Engineer (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Remote work flexibility

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Development Engineer to design, optimize and scale chemical processes from lab to production in a fully remote role within South Africa. You will work with cross-functional teams, drive process improvements, and mentor junior engineers, ensuring GMP-like rigor and safety compliance.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in process development, strong simulation skills (Aspen Plus, HYSYS), and excellent communication in a remote setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistical analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and development of new chemical processes from lab to production.
• Conduct feasibility studies, hazard analyses, and process simulations to validate designs.
• Develop and optimize existing processes to improve efficiency, yield, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and QA for seamless transfer and scale-up.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Produce technical reports, process flow diagrams, and documentation.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices; mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Process development

Scale-up

Optimization

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Process Development Engineer to join their innovative and dynamic team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will play a crucial role in designing, developing, and optimizing chemical processes for new and existing products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, a passion for problem-solving, and a proven track record of successful process implementation in a challenging environment. This role is perfect for an individual who thrives in an autonomous setting and can effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams virtually. You will be instrumental in driving forward-thinking solutions and contributing to the company's growth and technological advancement.

The Johannesburg-based operations will benefit from your expertise, even from a distance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of new chemical processes from laboratory scale to pilot and commercial production.
• Conduct feasibility studies, hazard analyses, and process simulations to evaluate and validate proposed process designs.
• Develop and optimize existing processes to improve efficiency, yield, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless process transfer and scale-up.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process issues, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Author clear and concise technical reports, documentation, and process flow diagrams (PFDs).
• Stay abreast of new technologies, methodologies, and best practices in chemical engineering and process development.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in process development, scale-up, and optimization within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat/mass transfer.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or similar regulatory environments is a plus.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program designed to support your well-being and professional growth. As a remote employee, you will enjoy the flexibility of working from home, eliminating commute time and costs. We provide access to cutting-edge virtual collaboration tools and platforms to ensure you remain connected and productive. Professional development opportunities, including online training courses and conference attendance (virtual), are readily available. You will be part of an inclusive and forward-thinking company culture that values innovation and employee contributions. Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plans are also part of the package, providing financial security and peace of mind. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on process innovation from the comfort of your home.