Process Development Chemist

Role & responsibilities

Job Purpose:

To support process development, optimization, and scale-up of new and existing chemical processes from lab to pilot plant scale, ensuring reproducibility, safety, and compliance with standard operating procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Process Development & Laboratory Work

• Conduct bench-scale chemical reactions under the guidance of process engineers/scientists.
• Perform reaction monitoring, product isolation, purification, and yield optimization.
• Record observations, process parameters, and material balances accurately in logbooks or electronic formats.
• Assist in process troubleshooting and modification during trials.
• Perform routine ETP analysis (pH, COD, BOD, TDS, TSS, etc.)
• Assist in R&D trials to improve ETP process efficiency
• Maintain lab records and ensure pollution control compliance as per instructions

2. Pilot Plant Operations

• Execute pilot plant trials as per batch manufacturing records (BMR) and process instructions.
• Support equipment preparation, charging, sampling, and monitoring of reaction progress.
• Ensure adherence to process safety, PPE usage, and good housekeeping standards.
• Coordinate with production, utilities, and EHS teams during scale-up runs.

3. Analytical Support & Documentation

• Collect and submit in-process and final samples for analysis.
• Maintain test records, reaction sheets, and equipment usage logs.
• Prepare batch reports, deviation notes, and support data for technology transfer.

4. Equipment & Process Handling

• Operate reactors, filters, centrifuges, and associated utilities in pilot setups.
• Handle vacuum distillation, solvent recovery, crystallization, and filtration operations safely.
• Report equipment abnormalities and assist maintenance teams in troubleshooting.

5. Compliance & Safety

• Follow SOPs, GLP, and safety guidelines during all lab and pilot activities.
• Participate in risk assessments and HAZOP discussions as applicable.
• Ensure proper labelling, waste segregation, and storage of materials.

Key Skills & Attributes:

• Sound understanding of organic chemistry and reaction mechanisms.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory glassware and pilot plant equipment.
• Familiarity with process documentation, batch records, and GMP principles.
• Strong observational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Safety-conscious, methodical, and team-oriented working style.

Preferred candidate profile