Senior Process Development Engineer - Specialty Chemicals

Our client, a rapidly expanding specialty chemicals company, is seeking an innovative Senior Process Development Engineer to lead their R&D efforts. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and scaling up novel chemical processes for the creation of high-value specialty chemicals. This role involves extensive laboratory work, pilot plant trials, and close collaboration with manufacturing teams to ensure seamless technology transfer.

We are looking for a creative thinker with a deep understanding of synthetic chemistry and process engineering principles, who is passionate about bringing new chemical products to market. Your expertise will be crucial in driving innovation and maintaining our client's competitive edge. This position is designed for an experienced professional who thrives in a remote and dynamic research environment, contributing significantly to product development from conceptualization to commercialization.

• Lead the design and execution of laboratory experiments and pilot plant studies for new chemical processes.
• Develop and optimize synthetic routes and process conditions for specialty chemical manufacturing.
• Scale up processes from laboratory bench to pilot plant and commercial production.
• Conduct thorough process hazard analyses (PHA) and ensure safe operating procedures.
• Characterize products and intermediates using analytical techniques.
• Collaborate with the commercial team to understand market needs and translate them into process requirements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges during process development and scale-up.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, patents, and regulatory documentation.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers involved in process development activities.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and scientific advancements in specialty chemical manufacturing.

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process development and scale-up, preferably in the specialty chemicals sector.
• Strong background in organic synthesis and reaction engineering.
• Proficiency with process simulation and modeling tools.
• Experience with pilot plant operations and design.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote setting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, essential for virtual teamwork.
• Experience with safety assessment techniques for chemical processes.
• Familiarity with analytical instrumentation (e.g., HPLC, GC-MS, NMR).

Our client offers an attractive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance-based bonuses. This remote role provides unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work with a global team. We support continuous learning through access to online courses, conferences, and research publications. Join a forward-thinking organization that is a leader in specialty chemicals and experience a truly collaborative and innovative remote work culture.

While the role is remote
, the company is based in South Africa
, and preference may be given to candidates within the country for occasional, essential meetings.