Chemical Engineer - Specialty Chemicals Formulation

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected manufacturer of performance additives and specialty chemicals, is seeking a talented Chemical Engineer to join their product development and manufacturing team in Paarl, Western Cape. This role focuses on the formulation, process development, and scale-up of advanced specialty chemical products. The successful candidate will be instrumental in translating laboratory formulations into robust, scalable manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality and consistency. You will work with a variety of complex chemical systems and innovative product lines. This is a demanding, on‑site position that requires meticulous attention to detail, strong problem‑solving skills, and a commitment to excellence. We are looking for an engineer eager to contribute to cutting‑edge chemical solutions in the heart of the Western Cape's industrial region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for specialty chemical formulations, including mixing, reaction, and finishing steps.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and pilot-scale trials to validate and scale up new formulations.
• Analyze process data to identify opportunities for improving efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Troubleshoot process issues and equipment malfunctions during production runs.
• Collaborate with the R&D team to ensure seamless transfer of new products from lab to plant.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, batch records, and SOPs.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and quality regulations.
• Specify and select appropriate process equipment for formulation and manufacturing.
• Provide technical support to production personnel and quality control teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in process development, scale‑up, or manufacturing, preferably within the specialty chemicals or coatings industry.
• Strong understanding of formulation science, mixing technology, and relevant chemical reactions.
• Experience with process control, instrumentation, and data analysis.
• Knowledge of process safety principles and hazard assessment techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working with diverse teams.
• Familiarity with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance‑based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid and retirement plans, and opportunities for continuous professional development and training in specialty chemical manufacturing. This full‑time, permanent position is based at our client's facility in Paarl, Western Cape.

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