Senior Process Engineer - Water Treatment

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Engineer to design, optimize, and troubleshoot advanced water and wastewater treatment processes for Queenstown and surrounding areas. Hybrid role mixing on-site assessments with remote analysis, focusing on membrane filtration, biological treatment, and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate holds a chemical engineering degree with 7+ years' experience in water treatment and strong problem-solving, communication, and project support skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in Chemical or Environmental Engineering.
• 7+ years in process engineering with a focus on water and wastewater.
• Experience with RO/UF/MBR, activated sludge, disinfection, and sludge handling.
• Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize water and wastewater treatment processes.
• Create PFDs and P&IDs, and specify equipment for upgrades.
• Perform root-cause analysis and implement solutions.
• Conduct treatability studies and pilot trials.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and permits.
• Prepare technical reports and assist with client communications.

Skills

Water/wastewater design

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Regulatory compliance

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of municipal and industrial water solutions, is seeking a Senior Process Engineer for their operations serving the Queenstown region and surrounding Eastern Cape areas. This hybrid role is vital for the design, optimization, and troubleshooting of advanced water and wastewater treatment processes. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of various treatment technologies, including membrane filtration, biological treatment, disinfection, and sludge management. You will be responsible for ensuring treatment plants operate efficiently, meet stringent quality standards, and comply with environmental regulations. This position involves a combination of on-site technical assessments and remote process analysis, design modifications, and project support. Our client is committed to sustainable water management and seeks a dedicated professional to drive innovation in this critical field.

Key Responsibilities

Design and engineer water and wastewater treatment processes, including process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping & instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs). Optimize existing treatment plant operations to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance effluent quality. Troubleshoot operational issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement effective solutions. Specify process equipment and materials for new installations and upgrades. Conduct treatability studies and pilot plant trials to evaluate new technologies or process modifications. Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and discharge permits. Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and project proposals. Provide technical support and training to plant operators and junior engineers. Collaborate with project managers, construction teams, and clients to ensure successful project delivery. Stay abreast of advancements in water treatment technologies and best practices.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline. Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with a significant focus on water and wastewater treatment. Proven experience with various treatment technologies such as membrane processes (RO, UF, MBR), activated sludge, conventional biological treatment, and disinfection. Strong understanding of water chemistry and regulatory requirements for potable water and wastewater discharge. Experience with process simulation software is advantageous. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly. Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, including regular site visits to facilities in and around Queenstown .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and paid annual leave.
• This hybrid role provides a balance between on-site operational engagement and remote technical work, supporting work-life integration.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and certification support, are readily available.
• Join a company that is making a tangible difference in environmental sustainability and public health in the Eastern Cape , contributing to essential water infrastructure.