Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Processes

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Hybrid work in Pretoria

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria is seeking a seasoned Chemical Engineer to design, optimize, and supervise petrochemical processes. This hybrid role blends on-site collaboration with remote work to drive large-scale projects, safety, and environmental compliance.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in petrochemicals or oil and gas, strong HYSYS skills, and a clear track record in process design and troubleshooting. Join a leading industry player delivering performance improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 5 years in petrochemical/oil and gas industries.
• Strong design, simulation and troubleshooting capabilities.
• Knowledge of safety, environmental and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and optimize petrochemical processes.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for new and existing plants.
• Run process simulations and feasibility studies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues; identify root causes.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance in design and operations.
• Collaborate with project managers and plant personnel for success.
• Perform design reviews and prepare technical documentation.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and cost reduction.

Skills

Process design

Aspen HYSYS

Process simulation

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PFD & P&ID design

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer to contribute to their core operations. This hybrid role requires a dedicated professional who can blend on-site collaboration with remote flexibility. You will be involved in the design, development, and optimization of complex petrochemical processes, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. This position offers a significant opportunity to work on large-scale projects, utilizing advanced engineering principles and cutting-edge technologies. The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining and improving the operational performance of our client's facilities. This role is based in Pretoria, Gauteng , and requires a commitment to both remote work and regular on-site engagement to foster strong team dynamics and project oversight. We value a balance between independent work and essential in-person collaboration for this dynamic role.

Key Responsibilities

Design, analyze, and optimize chemical processes for the production of petrochemical products. Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs). Conduct process simulations and feasibility studies for new projects and process modifications. Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions. Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards in process design and operation. Collaborate with project managers, other engineers, and plant personnel to ensure project success. Perform technical reviews of engineering designs and modifications. Prepare technical reports, operating manuals, and other necessary documentation. Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement recommended safety measures. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution. Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in the petrochemical or oil and gas industry. Proven experience in process design, simulation (e.g., Aspen HYSYS), and troubleshooting. Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles relevant to petrochemical processes. Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., API, ASME). Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in a hybrid team environment. Proficiency in project management tools and techniques. Commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, managing time efficiently in both remote and on-site capacities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance bonuses.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility, allowing for remote workdays combined with essential on-site engagement in Pretoria, Gauteng.
• Opportunities for professional development, training programs, and career advancement within a leading industry company are readily available.
• We support a healthy work-life balance and foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.