Senior Process Engineer - Polymer Synthesis & Scale-Up

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance bonuses and profit sharing

Comprehensive medical, dental, and/or视

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Process Engineer to lead polymer synthesis scale-up and translate lab findings into robust manufacturing processes. You will design reactors, optimize conditions, and ensure safety across complex polymer systems.

The role requires a PhD or Masters in Chemical Engineering, 7+ years in process engineering, expertise in polymerization mechanisms, and strong analytical and collaboration skills to drive innovation in a fast-paced industrial setting.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering focused on polymer synthesis and scale-up.
• In-depth understanding of polymerization mechanisms (e.g., free radical, condensation, anionic, cationic).
• Experience with reactor design, heat transfer, and mass transfer calculations for polymer systems.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, gPROMS).
• Knowledge of polymer characterization techniques is beneficial.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the scale-up of polymer synthesis processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial scale.
• Design and specify chemical reactors, separation equipment, and associated utilities for polymerization processes.
• Optimize reaction parameters (temperature, pressure, catalysts, feed rates) to maximize yield, purity, and molecular weight distribution.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) for polymerization reactions, identifying and mitigating risks.
• Develop PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams) and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams).
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in polymer manufacturing processes.
• Perform process simulations to evaluate different operating scenarios and design modifications.
• Collaborate with materials scientists and R&D chemists on new product development projects.
• Ensure process designs comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and capital cost estimates for process improvements and new installations.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Scale-up expertise

Process optimization

Analytical problem solving

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

gPROMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading specialty chemicals manufacturer, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Engineer to focus on polymer synthesis and scale-up activities at their facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This key role involves the development and optimization of polymerization processes, translating laboratory findings into robust, scalable manufacturing operations. You will work on designing reactors, optimizing reaction conditions, managing heat transfer, and ensuring process safety for complex polymer systems. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of polymer chemistry, reaction engineering, and scale-up principles, combined with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovation in advanced materials within a dynamic industrial setting. You will collaborate closely with R&D chemists, pilot plant engineers, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful product development and commercialization. Your expertise will be crucial in driving efficiency and quality in our polymer production lines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the scale-up of polymer synthesis processes from laboratory to pilot and commercial scale.
• Design and specify chemical reactors, separation equipment, and associated utilities for polymerization processes.
• Optimize reaction parameters (temperature, pressure, catalysts, feed rates) to maximize yield, purity, and molecular weight distribution.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) for polymerization reactions, identifying and mitigating risks.
• Develop PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams) and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams).
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in polymer manufacturing processes.
• Perform process simulations to evaluate different operating scenarios and design modifications.
• Collaborate with materials scientists and R&D chemists on new product development projects.
• Ensure process designs comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and capital cost estimates for process improvements and new installations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on polymer synthesis and scale-up.
• In-depth understanding of polymerization mechanisms (e.g., free radical, condensation, anionic, cationic).
• Experience with reactor design, heat transfer, and mass transfer calculations for polymer systems.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, gPROMS).
• Knowledge of polymer characterization techniques is beneficial.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles.
• Familiarity with industrial production environments and equipment is essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Opportunities for professional development, including conferences and advanced training.
• A hybrid work model balancing on-site collaboration with remote flexibility.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the Vereeniging area.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities.
• A culture that values innovation and employee growth.