Process Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Performance bonuses

Medical aid scheme

Retirement fund contribution

Paid time off

Professional development and training

Hybrid work model

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Process Engineer for a major petrochemical facility in Gauteng. The role combines on-site operations with remote analysis to optimize complex chemical processes, improve safety, and drive cost reductions.

You will troubleshoot, implement process improvements, and mentor operators while collaborating with maintenance, operations and safety teams. This position offers growth in a challenging industrial environment with relocation considerations for exceptional

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in process engineering in petrochemical/oil and gas.
• Strong grasp of refining processes, thermodynamics and unit operations.
• Proficient with process simulation software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations to identify deviations and take corrective actions.
• Develop process optimization strategies to improve yield and reduce energy use.
• Perform root cause analysis for upsets and equipment failures.
• Prepare technical reports and performance evaluations.
• Collaborate with maintenance, operations and safety teams for reliability and compliance.
• Participate in PHAs and safety studies.
• Support capital projects through design reviews and MOC.
• Stay updated on new technologies to improve processes.
• Provide technical support and training to operators.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Thermodynamics fundamentals

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading petrochemical facility located in Tembisa, Gauteng , is seeking a skilled and motivated Process Engineer to join their dynamic operational team. This role is critical in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of complex chemical processes within the refinery. You will be instrumental in troubleshooting operational issues, optimizing plant performance, and implementing process improvements to enhance productivity and reduce costs. The position requires a strong understanding of petrochemical processes and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This is a hybrid role, offering a blend of on-site operational engagement and remote analysis, providing flexibility while maintaining essential hands‑on involvement. You will work with a dedicated team focused on achieving operational excellence and upholding the highest safety standards in a challenging industrial environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer looking to grow their career in a vital sector of the economy. This role is based at our major facility in Tembisa, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant operations to identify deviations from optimal performance and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies to improve yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Conduct root cause analysis for operational upsets and equipment failures, recommending and implementing preventative measures.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation, and performance evaluations.
• Collaborate with maintenance, operations, and safety teams to ensure plant reliability and compliance.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and contribute to safety studies.
• Support capital projects through process design reviews, MOC (Management of Change) activities, and commissioning.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and industry best practices to continuously improve processes.
• Provide technical support and training to plant operators and technicians.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process engineering within the petrochemical or oil and gas industry.
• Solid understanding of refining processes, thermodynamics, and unit operations.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities, with experience working in a multidisciplinary team.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and environmental standards relevant to the petrochemical industry.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office environments, with a commitment to safety protocols.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package including a substantial annual salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive medical aid scheme.
• Employees also benefit from a retirement fund contribution, paid time off, and opportunities for further professional development and training.
• The hybrid work model allows for a balanced work-life integration.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• Join a stable and reputable organization where your contributions are valued and career progression is encouraged.