Senior Process Engineer - Speciality Chemicals

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape seeks a Senior Process Engineer to lead and optimize production processes in a high‑performance speciality chemicals facility. You will drive efficiency, safety, and quality, oversee scale‑up, troubleshoot complex issues, and implement new technologies on-site.

The role requires an MSc or BEng in Chemical Engineering, 7+ years in process engineering, strong skills in thermodynamics, Aspen Plus, PSM/HAZOP, and excellent leadership and collaboration with

Qualifications

• MSc or BEng in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive process engineering experience in chemicals.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, kinetics and transport phenomena.

Responsibilities

• Lead optimization of existing chemical processes to improve yield and reduce costs.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues, identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Oversee scale-up from lab/pilot to production.
• Develop and implement process improvements, including equipment selection and design.
• Conduct PHAs and ensure safety/regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with R&D, production and maintenance for seamless operations.
• Maintain process documentation (P&IDs, SOPs, batch records).
• Mentor junior engineers and guide operators.
• Stay updated on industry trends and new technologies.
• Contribute to capital project planning and execution for process enhancements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Analytical ability

Problem solving

Project management

Education

MSc or BEng in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturer in the speciality chemicals market, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Engineer to oversee and enhance their production processes. This role is critical for driving efficiency, quality, and safety within their Upington, Northern Cape facility. You will be responsible for process optimization, troubleshooting, scale-up, and the implementation of new technologies. This position requires a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to lead and collaborate effectively with operational and technical teams on-site. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining and advancing the company's operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the optimization of existing chemical manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Oversee the scale-up of new processes from laboratory or pilot plant to commercial production.
• Develop and implement process improvements and modifications, including equipment selection and design.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless operations.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and batch records.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to operators.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in chemical process engineering.
• Contribute to capital project planning and execution related to process enhancements.

Requirements

• MSc or BEng in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the chemical industry, preferably in speciality chemicals.
• Proven experience in process optimization, troubleshooting, and scale-up.
• Strong knowledge of chemical thermodynamics, kinetics, and transport phenomena.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus) and data analysis tools.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively on-site in Upington, Northern Cape.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and environmental sustainability.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, life insurance, and a provident fund. This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a leading speciality chemicals company. You will work in a challenging and rewarding environment located in the strategic region of the Northern Cape.