Chemical Process Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 has partnered with a major petrochemical operator in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeking a Chemical Process Engineer. You will monitor operations, troubleshoot, debottleneck, and implement improvements to boost yield, energy efficiency, and product quality.

The role requires a BEng in Chemical Engineering and at least 3 years in process engineering within petrochemicals. On-site work in Richards Bay with a strong safety culture; familiar with HAZOP and process safety, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Minimum 3 years of process engineering experience in petrochemical or chemical manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of unit operations (distillation, reaction engineering, heat exchange) and process safety.

Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations and analyze performance data for optimization.
• Perform root-cause analyses and implement effective solutions.
• Develop process improvements to increase yield and reduce energy use.
• Prepare PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specs for modifications.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and project teams on-site.
• Assist in commissioning and start-up of new equipment and modifications.
• Provide technical support to operators and technicians.
• Participate in HAZOPs and safety reviews.

Skills

Analytical problem-solving

Team collaboration

Communication skills

On-site work

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Control systems knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a skilled Chemical Process Engineer to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is crucial for optimizing and maintaining the efficiency and safety of complex petrochemical processes. You will be responsible for process monitoring, troubleshooting, debottlenecking, and implementing improvements to enhance productivity and product quality. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles and practical experience in a large-scale industrial setting. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career within a vital sector of the South African economy.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations, analyze performance data, and identify opportunities for process optimization.
• Conduct root cause analyses for operational issues and implement effective solutions.
• Develop and implement process improvements to increase yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Prepare process design packages, including PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications for modifications and upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project teams to support plant activities.
• Assist in the commissioning and start-up of new equipment and process modifications.
• Provide technical support to plant operators and technicians.
• Participate in safety reviews, such as HAZOP studies.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of best practices in process engineering.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a process engineering role within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry.
• Solid understanding of unit operations common in petrochemical plants (e.g., distillation, reaction engineering, heat exchange).
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Knowledge of process safety principles and risk management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently on-site in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Familiarity with control systems and instrumentation is an asset.
• Must be a South African citizen or have valid work permits.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, performance-based incentives, and ample opportunities for professional development and career growth within the organization. The role is based at our state-of-the-art facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .