Senior Process Optimization Engineer - Petrochemical Refining

Placements24; Roanoke (VA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible remote work

Competitive benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Opportunity to lead major optimization

Job summary

Placements24 client is seeking a Senior Process Optimization Engineer to drive efficiency in petrochemical refining. The role is remote, enabling analysis of complex operational data and the implementation of strategic improvements across multiple facilities.

You will use advanced modeling and data analytics to enhance process performance, yield and energy efficiency, mentoring juniors and helping standardize best practices from a flexible, remote setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering with a focus on optimization in petrochemical refining or similar industries.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, Aspen DMCplus) and advanced process control (APC).
• Strong data analysis and statistical modeling skills.
• Solid understanding of chemical thermodynamics, kinetics and fluid dynamics.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Strong communication and ability to work in a remote team.

Responsibilities

• Analyze plant data to identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency gains.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve yield, energy use and throughput.
• Use process simulation tools to predict performance and test optimization scenarios.
• Collaborate with on-site operations and engineering teams to validate improvements.
• Monitor KPIs and report trends in process efficiency.

Skills

Data analysis

Process optimization

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Aspen DMCplus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Process Optimization Engineer to drive efficiency and innovation within their refining operations. This role will be performed remotely, allowing you to leverage your expertise to analyze complex operational data, identify bottlenecks, and implement strategic improvements across multiple facilities. You will utilize advanced modeling techniques and data analytics to enhance process performance, yield, and energy efficiency. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced engineer to make a significant impact on operational excellence from a flexible, remote work setting, supporting our diverse operations including those near East London, Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze plant operational data to identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency gains.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve product yield, energy consumption, and throughput.
• Utilize advanced process simulation and modeling tools to predict performance and test optimization scenarios.
• Collaborate with on-site operations and engineering teams to implement and validate process improvements.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on process efficiency trends.
• Conduct root cause analyses for process upsets and deviations.
• Stay current with new technologies and best practices in process optimization and petrochemical refining.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs and operating procedures, reflecting optimized states.
• Mentor junior engineers and share expertise on process optimization techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on optimization in petrochemical refining or similar industries.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, Aspen DMCplus) and advanced process control (APC).
• Strong data analysis and statistical modeling skills.
• Excellent understanding of chemical thermodynamics, kinetics, and fluid dynamics.
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team.
• Self-motivated and able to manage projects and priorities independently.
• Experience in developing and implementing process improvements in a refining environment.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health coverage, retirement contributions, and performance-based bonuses.
• Our client values work-life balance and offers the flexibility of working from anywhere.
• Continuous learning and professional development are supported through online training, virtual conferences, and access to industry-leading software and resources.
• You will have the opportunity to lead significant optimization initiatives that enhance the profitability and sustainability of major petrochemical operations.