Lead Chemical Process Engineer

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Bonuses

Training programs

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Process Engineer for a major chemical manufacturer in Welkom, Free State. This senior role leads a team to optimize processes, scale pilot operations, and ensure safety and environmental compliance.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's or Master’s in Chemical Engineering with 8+ years of experience, strong Aspen Plus/HYSYS skills, CAD proficiency, and a proven track record in project leadership and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering.
• Experience in process design, simulation, and scale-up.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Proven experience in leading engineering projects and teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and report-writing abilities.
• Knowledge of safety management systems (HAZOP, LOPA) and environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of new chemical processes and the optimization of existing ones.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar tools.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and scale-up from laboratory to production.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues and implement solutions to improve yield and efficiency.
• Develop and maintain process documentation including P&IDs, balances, and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Lead and mentor a team of chemical process engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams for seamless integration.
• Perform economic evaluations and feasibility studies for new projects and modifications.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices.

Skills

Chemical engineering

Process design

Process simulation

Scale-up

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the chemical manufacturing industry, is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Lead Chemical Process Engineer to join their team in Welkom, Free State . This senior role is crucial for optimizing existing chemical processes, developing new ones, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemical engineering principles, process simulation, and scale-up operations. You will lead a team of process engineers, driving innovation and continuous improvement within the plant. This is a significant opportunity to shape the future of chemical production in Welkom and contribute to the industrial growth of the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes and the optimization of existing ones.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar tools.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and manage the scale-up of processes from laboratory to commercial production.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues and implement effective solutions to improve yield, efficiency, and quality.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and operating procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Lead and mentor a team of chemical process engineers, providing technical guidance and professional development support.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless integration and operation of processes.
• Perform economic evaluations and feasibility studies for new projects and process modifications.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in chemical process engineering.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering, preferably in a relevant industrial sector.
• Demonstrated experience in process design, simulation, and scale-up.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Proven experience in leading engineering projects and teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and report-writing abilities.
• Knowledge of safety management systems (e.g., HAZOP, LOPA) and environmental regulations.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including excellent medical aid, a generous provident fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and international training are provided.
• The company is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive work environment that promotes work-life balance.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to lead innovation in the chemical industry in Welkom , Free State , and advance your career with a forward-thinking organization.