Senior Process Optimization Engineer (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work premium

Annual bonus

Global health insurance

Retirement plan

Home office stipend

Remote professional development

Flexible work hours

Virtual collaboration platform

Wellness initiatives

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Optimization Engineer to lead data-driven improvements in global projects from anywhere in South Africa. You will optimize complex industrial processes, leverage modeling tools, and mentor junior engineers in a remote-first environment.

The role emphasizes sustainability, cost reduction, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering and operations teams worldwide. A master’s degree and 7+ years of experience are required, with a preference for

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial or Chemical Engineering with emphasis on process optimization.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in process engineering and optimization in industrial settings.
• Expertise in process simulation software: Aspen Plus, ExtendSim, MATLAB/Simulink.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Remote-work experience is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Analyze complex industrial processes to identify inefficiencies and optimization opportunities.
• Develop data-driven strategies to improve performance, throughput, and resource use.
• Utilize simulation, modeling, and statistical analysis techniques.
• Design and document new process workflows and SOPs.
• Lead cross-functional, remote teams and projects.
• Present findings and progress to stakeholders.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote innovation within the remote team.
• Stay updated on new technologies and methodologies in process optimization.

Skills

Industrial engineering

Data analytics

Process optimization

Lean Six Sigma

Remote collaboration

Communication

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ExtendSim

MATLAB/Simulink

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm in sustainable industrial solutions, is actively seeking a Senior Process Optimization Engineer for a fully remote position. This role is critical for driving significant improvements in operational efficiency and resource utilization across our client's global projects. You will leverage your deep expertise in industrial engineering, data analytics, and process modeling to identify and implement innovative solutions. This is a unique opportunity to work from anywhere in South Africa, contributing to impactful projects without the constraints of a physical office. We are looking for a results-oriented professional with a strong analytical acumen and a passion for developing sustainable, efficient processes. Your work will directly influence the optimization of complex industrial operations, making a tangible difference in environmental impact and cost-effectiveness. Our client champions a remote-first culture, equipped with robust digital collaboration tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze complex industrial processes to identify inefficiencies, waste, and opportunities for optimization.
• Develop and implement data-driven strategies to enhance process performance, throughput, and resource efficiency.
• Utilize advanced simulation, modeling, and statistical analysis techniques.
• Design and document new process workflows and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Collaborate with geographically dispersed engineering, operations, and management teams.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Conduct root cause analyses for process challenges and develop effective solutions.
• Present findings, recommendations, and project progress to stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in process optimization and industrial engineering.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of innovation and learning within the remote team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with a strong emphasis on process optimization.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process engineering and optimization within industrial settings.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ExtendSim, MATLAB/Simulink) and advanced statistical analysis tools.
• Demonstrated experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement frameworks.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, crucial for remote collaboration.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and deliver measurable results independently.
• Experience working in a fully remote capacity is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of sustainability principles in industrial processes is a plus.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely in South Africa.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with remote work premium.
• Annual performance-based bonus and potential equity options.
• Comprehensive global health insurance coverage.
• Robust retirement savings and investment plans.
• Generous home office stipend and tech support.
• Extensive opportunities for remote professional development and certifications.
• Flexible work hours to accommodate different time zones.
• Access to a cutting-edge virtual collaboration platform.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.