Process Optimization & Laboratory Engineer – Graduate Programme

Location:

Dessel Plant

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.

Are We the Perfect Match?

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.

Job Description:

The Global Graduate Programme – A Fast-Track to Leadership

The Sibelco Global Graduate Programme is a two-year rotational programme consisting of two one-year assignments in key operational and commercial roles. Participants gain hands-on experience with real business projects, ensuring early responsibility and exposure to strategic decision-making.

Participants receive a permanent contract from the start, ensuring long-term career prospects within Sibelco. As part of this programme, we are recruiting a Graduate Operations & Laboratory Improvement Engineer for a one-year assignment supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the Dessel Cluster, Belgium.

Graduates must also be open to spending their second year in a different cluster outside their initial region to gain international or regional business exposure.

Your Impact in This Role

The Dessel Cluster is continuously improving both its production processes and laboratory capabilities to support operational excellence, product quality, and business growth. During this assignment, you will work across manufacturing and laboratory functions, contributing to projects that optimise production performance while strengthening analytical capabilities for current and future mineral applications.

• Analyse production processes and identify operational bottlenecks to improve efficiency and equipment performance
• Optimise bagging operations, including deaeration, changeovers, and production run cycles
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by analysing operational data and implementing process enhancements
• Develop and update XRF analytical methods and calibration standard lines for a range of mineral products
• Optimise sample preparation methods using wax pellets and glass bead fusion techniques
• Validate and implement new laboratory methods and work instructions to improve analytical quality and consistency
• Become proficient in XRF analytical software to support method development and laboratory optimisation
• Collaborate with production, laboratory, and maintenance teams to deliver sustainable operational improvements
• Present project findings and recommendations to technical and operational stakeholders
• Contribute to strengthening the Dessel Cluster's operational performance and analytical expertise across Sibelco

What You Bring to the Table

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Interest in both manufacturing operations and laboratory technologies
• Ability to analyse technical and operational data to identify improvement opportunities
• Hands-on mindset with an interest in process optimisation and continuous improvement
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence
• Fluent English communication skills
• Openness to international/regional mobility during year two

Our Selection Process

• Application Submission – CV & Cover/Motivation Letter
• First Interview – Initial screening and motivation discussion
• Assessment – Evaluation of key competencies
• Business Case Study – Real-world problem-solving challenge
• Panel Interview – Final interview with key stakeholders

Why Join Us?

• A permanent contract from the start
• Competitive salary
• Relocation support
• Hands-on experience across both manufacturing operations and laboratory excellence
• Real responsibility from day one, working on projects with measurable business impact
• Structured career path with performance guidance and mentorship
• Exposure to advanced analytical technologies and continuous improvement methodologies
• International/regional experience through the Global Graduate Programme

Employee Type:

Graduate

Why Join Us?

Sibelco is more than a workplace—it’s a community that encourages growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team:

• Meet Our People: Careers

• Learn About Our Recruitment Process: Learn More

• Discover Our Sustainability Goals: Sibelco priorities

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

How to Apply

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/X and Facebook to learn more about life at Sibelco. Submit your application in the Apply option.

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