Chemical Process Optimization Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging seeks a Chemical Process Optimization Engineer to enhance efficiency, yield and sustainability of established chemical processes. This hands-on, on-site role partners with operations and engineering teams to implement tangible improvements using advanced analytics and process modeling.

Requires a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, ≥5 years in process engineering with optimization focus, expertise in process simulation, data analysis and Six Sigma/Lean, and the

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of process engineering experience with a focus on optimization.
• Experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Proven ability to identify cost-saving and efficiency improvements.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, kinetics, and transport phenomena.
• Experience with Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a plant environment.
• Willing to relocate to the Vereeniging area.

Responsibilities

• Analyze process data to identify optimization opportunities in yield, energy, and throughput.
• Develop and implement process improvement projects using Six Sigma or Lean.
• Conduct studies including mass and energy balances to support optimization.
• Perform process simulations to evaluate changes and design improvements.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical expertise.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance to implement changes.
• Develop and update process documentation, including P&IDs and SOPs.
• Ensure modifications comply with safety, health and environmental standards.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process enhancement.
• Mentor junior engineers on analysis and optimization techniques.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation

Six Sigma tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the metallurgical and chemical processing industry, is seeking a highly skilled Chemical Process Optimization Engineer to join their team in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This critical role focuses on enhancing the efficiency, yield, and sustainability of our existing chemical processes. The successful candidate will utilize advanced analytical techniques and process modeling to identify bottlenecks, reduce operational costs, and improve overall plant performance. This is a hands‑on, on‑site position where you will work closely with plant operations and engineering teams to implement tangible improvements. Our commitment is to operational excellence and leveraging technology to achieve superior results in the Vereeniging industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze process data to identify opportunities for optimization in yield, energy consumption, and throughput.
• Develop and implement process improvement projects using methodologies like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing.
• Conduct detailed engineering studies, including mass and energy balances, to support optimization efforts.
• Perform process simulations to evaluate the impact of changes and design improvements.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical expertise to resolve complex problems.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure effective implementation of process changes.
• Develop and update process documentation, including P&IDs and operating procedures.
• Ensure all process modifications comply with safety, health, and environmental standards.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment for process enhancement.
• Mentor junior engineers on process analysis and optimization techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on optimization.
• Proven experience with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and implement cost‑saving and efficiency improvements.
• Strong understanding of chemical thermodynamics, kinetics, and transport phenomena.
• Experience with Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) methodologies is required.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with various departments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a plant environment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Vereeniging area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary of R , comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, performance bonuses, and opportunities for professional development. You will be part of a respected organization with a strong emphasis on safety and innovation. This role provides the chance to make a significant impact on operational performance and career advancement within the chemical industry. We provide a stimulating work environment and support for continuous learning. Further details on specific projects and benefits will be shared during the interview process.