Process Engineer – Activated Carbon
About the company
PLAC Group is a diversified conglomerate with business interests in manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and trading through its subsidiary companies. Carbon Activated Corporations Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, a subsidiary of PLAC Global Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, is a leading manufacturer of activated carbon, serving both local and international markets with high-performance, value-added carbon solutions.
With a clear strategic focus on technological advancement, product innovation, and process excellence, and in line with our continuous expansion and modernization initiatives, the company is strengthening its Process Engineering and Technical Operations capability.
As part of this strategic direction, we invite applications from suitably qualified and experienced engineering professionals to join our team as a Process Engineer – Activated Carbon, to drive process optimization, industrial innovation, and technical excellence across our manufacturing operations.
The process engineer will act as the technical bridge between Research & Development and Plant Operations, ensuring the effective scale-up of laboratory innovations into commercially viable production processes. The role demands deep expertise in activation processes, adsorption science, and industrial process control, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and global benchmarking.
Key responsibilities
- Optimize and control activated carbon activation processes (steam/chemical) to improve yield, quality, and cost efficiency.
- Develop and refine process parameters and activation methodologies aligned with global industry benchmarks.
- Lead process improvement and reengineering initiatives across production operations.
- Translate R&D outcomes into scalable, commercially viable production processes.
- Provide technical guidance and support to production teams on process stability and performance.
- Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and resolve process deviations and quality issues.
- Analyze key product and process data (e.g., adsorption performance, pore structure, surface area) to drive decision-making.
- Support development of new activated carbon grades and enhancement of existing products.
- Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and process performance reviews.
- Ensure compliance with international quality and operational standards while maintaining proprietary process confidentiality.
Qualifications & technical knowledge
- Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, process engineering, or related field.
- Master’s degree or specialization in carbon materials / adsorption science is an advantage.
- Deep understanding of:
- Activated carbon production technologies.
- Adsorption science and kinetics.
- Furnace/kiln operations (rotary kiln, vertical furnace).
- Expertise in:
- BET analysis, porosimetry, and surface characterization.
- Process simulation tools (e.g., aspen plus or similar).
- Strong knowledge of activation chemistry and proprietary process formulations.
- Minimum 2-5 years experience in activated carbon manufacturing & thermal/chemical activation processes. Proven experience in process optimization and industrial scale-up.
What we offer
- Opportunity to work with a leading activated carbon manufacturer with strong global market presence.
- Exposure to advanced process technologies and industrial-scale innovation.
- A dynamic environment focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence.
- Career growth and development within a rapidly expanding organization.
- Opportunity to contribute to high-impact R&D and process optimization initiatives.
- Competitive remuneration package aligned with experience and industry standards.
When applying
Candidates residing in close proximity to Nattandiya, Kuliyapitiya, Marawila, or Chilaw will have a definite advantage.
Please send your CV within 10 days, mentioning two non-related referees and their contact details. Please state the position applied for in the subject line.
Applications will be treated with strict confidentiality. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.