Lead Pilot Plant Engineer

Location: Red Hill

At Sibelco, we advance life through materials. For over 150 years, we’ve been a trusted leader in sourcing, transforming, and distributing specialty industrial minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction, coatings, polymers, and water purification. Beyond our materials, we’re proud of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and empowering people from all walks of life to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

At Sibelco, we believe building a successful career is a two‑way journey. We’re looking for individuals who share our values and vision, just as much as you’re seeking a company that aligns with your aspirations. Together, we can shape the future.

As a part of the T&I Team, the Lead Pilot Plant Engineer role will empower you in researching, developing, and optimizing chemical and thermal processes to enhance Sibelco’s product portfolio.

• Research and Development:
  Conduct in-depth research on chemical and thermal processes for high purity quartz purification and production.
• Engineering calculations from first principle for any processes that is being investigated
• Process Optimization:
  Design, develop, and optimize chemical and thermal processes to achieve high purity levels while ensuring efficiency and cost effectiveness.
• Experimental Testing:
  Conduct laboratory‑scale experiments and pilot studies to validate process feasibility, performance, and scalability.
• Data Analysis:
  Analyze experimental data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions to guide process improvement efforts.
• Process Simulation:
  Utilize process simulation software to model and simulate chemical reactions, heat transfer, and mass balance to optimize process parameters.
• Safety and Compliance:
  Ensure all R&D activities adhere to safety protocols, environmental regulations, and industry standards.
• Collaborative Teamwork:
  Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including chemists, technicians, and scientists, to drive interdisciplinary research projects.
• Equipment Evaluation:
  Evaluate and select appropriate equipment and technologies for chemical and thermal processing purposes.
• Aid the pilot plant team in ordering and supervising the assembling of processing equipment.
• Technical Documentation:
  Prepare detailed reports, technical documents, and presentations to internally communicate research findings and progress.
• Perform other duties as required.

• A bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. A master’s or a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or related field is preferred, but a lower degree with higher experience also will be looked at.
• Demonstrated experience in chemical process development and optimization at the plant level (min. 3 years)
• Familiarity with thermal processing methods and equipment.
• A drive to explore and find new innovative engineering process techniques.
• Knowledge of process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL, COSMO‑RS).
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and presentation skills.
• Safety‑conscious with a commitment to adhering to regulations.
• Passion for research and innovation in chemical engineering and materials processing.

• Meet Our People:
  Careers
• Learn About Our Recruitment Process:
  Recruitment process
• Discover Our Sustainability Goals:
  Sustainability

We also welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support you through the selection process.

Follow us on Linked In, Instagram, Twitter/X and Facebook to learn more about life mit your application here: [Insert application link].

Please note:

We do not require agency services as we have a dedicated Global Talent Acquisition Team.

Sibelco is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Employee Type: Permanent