Sibelco is a global material solutions company. We mine, process and sell industrial minerals at locations worldwide, focused primarily on silica, clays, feldspathics and olivine. We are also leaders in glass recycling. The Sibelco Group operates over 110 production sites in 31 countries, with a team of over 5,000 people.
Click to see how Sibelco materials are used in products within and outside your home.
Location:SP Red Hill
We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Pilot Plant Manager to join our R&D team. The Pilot Plant Manager will be responsible for overseeing the operation and management of our pilot plant, ensuring the successful scale-up of processes from laboratory to production scale. This role requires a deep understanding of chemical engineering, process development, and project management, coupled with strong leadership and organizational skills.
Key Responsibilities:Pilot Plant Operations:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the pilot plant, ensuring all activities comply with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of pilot plant equipment.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pilot plant activities.
• Monitor and analyze process performance data to identify areas for improvement and ensure optimal operation.

Process Scale-Up:

• Collaborate with process development teams to translate laboratory-scale processes into pilot-scale operations.
• Conduct pilot trials to validate process concepts and technologies.
• Ensure seamless integration of new processes into the pilot plant, addressing any technical challenges that arise.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency, safety, and scalability.

Team Leadership:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the pilot plant team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Provide technical guidance and support to team members, ensuring high standards of performance and productivity.
• Coordinate with other departments, including Quality Control, Production, and Procurement, to ensure smooth operations.

Project Management:

• Manage pilot plant projects, including planning, resource allocation, budgeting, and timeline management.
• Communicate project progress, challenges, and results to stakeholders, including senior management and other departments.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Safety and Compliance:

• Ensure that all pilot plant operations adhere to safety regulations and industry standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols to minimize hazards and ensure a safe working environment.
• Stay current with regulatory requirements and ensure compliance in all pilot plant activities.

About You

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in pilot plant operations and process scale-up, preferably in the [specific industry].
• Proven track record of managing pilot plant projects and leading cross-functional teams.
• Strong technical knowledge of chemical processes, equipment, and safety standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis tools.

But most importantly, if you embrace our core values, and if this role sparks your enthusiasm to apply your passion to contribute in a meaningful way as a part of Sibelco’s team of unique talents within a diverse international business community, then we very much look forward to hearing from you.
To Apply:Please click apply to register your information and contact details on the recruitment portal so one of our team can get in touch.
Inclusive Team Culture: Attractive Employer (sibelco.com)
Sibelco recognises the strength of our diverse global workforce and values difference and inclusion for all. Our rich mix of people bring an exciting exchange of ideas and knowledge to keep us moving forward and innovating new solutions. We seek talent of all backgrounds and abilities and continue to develop our leaders and our culture to help all current and new employees to grow and reach their full potential.
Salary & Benefits: We will gladly discuss these aspects with you at interview stage.
Meet our People: Careers (sibelco.com)
Recruitment Process: Recruitment process (sibelco.com)
We welcome your application and will make reasonable adjustments where required to support you through the selection process.
Sibelco Targets: Sibelco priorities (sibelco.com)
We have set clearly defined sustainability priorities and targets, with key environmental and social objectives, which include Health & Safety, Climate & Energy, Community Engagement, Human Rights and Business Ethics.
Please note we have a Global Talent Acquisition Team and we will not therefore be requiring agency services