Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Specialization

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybride; ZAR 900 000 - 1 300 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based incentives

Generous annual leave

Professional development

International training

Exposure to advanced technologies

Résumé du poste

Placements24 based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Chemical Engineer specializing in petrochemical processes for a hybrid role focused on optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of key units. The position balances on-site operations with off-site analysis.

The ideal candidate has a strong academic background and practical petrochemical experience, with skills in process simulation, PSM, and safe, data‑driven project execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the petrochemical or related chemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical processes (e.g., olefins, aromatics, polymers).
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of process control and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.

Responsabilités

• Analyze and optimize existing petrochemical processes to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in units such as cracking, reforming, and polymerization.
• Develop and implement process modifications and new technologies to enhance performance and safety.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to predict outcomes and identify improvement opportunities.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D teams to support plant operations and projects.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implement recommended actions.
• Assist in the commissioning and start-up of new equipment or process modifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical training on specific process areas.

Connaissances

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Process simulation

PSM principles

Process control

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Outils

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a dedicated and innovative Chemical Engineer with a specialization in petrochemical processes. Based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , this role will focus on the optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of our client's key petrochemical units. You will work on projects ranging from process efficiency enhancements to the implementation of new technologies, ensuring maximum yield and operational safety. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding career path within a company committed to sustainability and technological advancement. The successful candidate will have a strong academic background and practical experience in petrochemical operations. This hybrid role allows for a balance between essential on-site operational engagement and focused off-site analytical work, fostering productivity and well‑being.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing petrochemical processes to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in units such as cracking, reforming, and polymerization.
• Develop and implement process modifications and new technologies to enhance performance and safety.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to predict outcomes and identify improvement opportunities.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and operational guidelines.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D teams to support plant operations and projects.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and implement recommended actions.
• Assist in the commissioning and start-up of new equipment or process modifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical training on specific process areas.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the petrochemical or related chemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical processes (e.g., olefins, aromatics, polymers).
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of process control and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Experience with data analysis and statistical tools is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary reflective of experience and specialization.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Performance‑based incentives and bonuses.
• Generous annual leave and public holidays.
• Opportunities for further professional development and international training.
• Exposure to advanced petrochemical technologies and large‑scale operations.
• A supportive work environment with a strong emphasis on safety and career growth.