Chemical Process Optimization Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Process Optimization Engineer for our Centurion facility to enhance yield, reduce energy use and waste, and ensure regulatory compliance. This on-site role collaborates with production teams.

The ideal candidate has a chemical engineering degree and 3–5 years of experience in process optimization, with proficiency in Aspen HYSYS or UniSim and DoE/SPC methods.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 3-5 years in process engineering with optimization focus.
• Proficient in process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, UniSim).
• Strong knowledge of SPC and DoE methodologies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on experience in chemical manufacturing environment.
• Effective communication with plant personnel.
• Familiarity with safety and environmental standards.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex process data.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing chemical processes to identify optimization opportunities for yield, energy use and waste.
• Develop and implement process improvements using data analysis and stats.
• Design pilot studies and experiments to validate changes.
• Collaborate with production staff to implement modifications.
• Monitor KPIs and report performance metrics.
• Troubleshoot plant issues and provide technical support.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health and environmental standards.
• Update process documentation including P&IDs and SOPs.
• Stay informed on new technologies for process optimization.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

UniSim

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the specialty chemicals sector, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Process Optimization Engineer for their facility in Centurion, Gauteng. This role is crucial for enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of our existing manufacturing processes. The engineer will be responsible for identifying bottlenecks, implementing process improvements, and ensuring that operations align with best practices and regulatory standards. This is an on-site position, offering hands-on involvement in plant operations and direct collaboration with production teams in Centurion, Gauteng. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mindset and a passion for driving tangible improvements in chemical manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing chemical processes to identify areas for optimization in terms of yield, energy consumption, and waste reduction.
• Develop and implement process improvement strategies using data analysis and statistical methods.
• Design and conduct pilot studies and experiments to validate proposed changes.
• Work closely with production staff to implement process modifications and ensure smooth transitions.
• Monitor process performance metrics and report on key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical support to the manufacturing team.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Develop and update process documentation, including P&IDs and SOPs.
• Stay informed about new technologies and methodologies for process optimization in the chemical industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 3-5 years of experience in process engineering, with a focus on optimization and improvement.
• Proficiency in process simulation and modeling software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, UniSim).
• Strong understanding of statistical process control (SPC) and Design of Experiments (DoE).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on experience in a chemical manufacturing environment is essential.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with plant personnel.
• Knowledge of relevant safety and environmental standards.
• Ability to interpret and analyze complex process data.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement contributions. Opportunities for professional development and further training are available. The company fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. Employees are encouraged to participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Located conveniently in Centurion, Gauteng, the role offers direct impact and visibility within the organization.