Graduate Chemical Engineer - Process Design & Simulation

Placements24; Graafwater; Hybrid; ZAR 190,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a Graduate Chemical Engineer to join the process design team. This role provides broad exposure to process design, simulation, and technical analysis across industries, under the guidance of senior engineers.

You will develop essential skills in PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specification while working in a dynamic consultancy environment. A clear path to a permanent position awaits high performers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Strong academic record with focus on chemical engineering principles.
• Familiarity with process simulation software is a strong asset.
• Basic understanding of PFDs, P&IDs, and engineering design principles.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Eagerness to learn and develop professionally.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in developing PFDs and P&IDs.
• Perform process simulations using Aspen HYSYS or CHEMCAD.
• Contribute to equipment design and specification.
• Conduct feasibility studies and evaluations.
• Gather and analyse process data to support design decisions.
• Prepare technical reports, calculations, and documentation.
• Participate in design reviews and safety assessments.
• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines for integrated delivery.
• Learn industry best practices in process design and safety.

Skills

PFDs & P&IDs

Process simulation

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

CHEMCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected engineering consultancy firm, is looking for an enthusiastic Graduate Chemical Engineer to join their process design team in Paarl, Western Cape . This is an exceptional opportunity for a recent graduate to gain broad experience in process design, simulation, and technical analysis across various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and industrial manufacturing. You will work under the guidance of experienced senior engineers, developing essential skills in process modelling, P&ID development, and equipment specification. The role offers a fantastic launchpad for a career in chemical engineering consultancy. This position is based in our client's modern offices in Paarl, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in developing process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform process simulations using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, CHEMCAD).
• Contribute to the design and specification of chemical process equipment.
• Conduct technical feasibility studies and process evaluations.
• Gather and analyse process data to support design decisions.
• Prepare technical reports, calculations, and project documentation.
• Participate in design reviews and safety assessments (e.g., HAZOP studies).
• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Learn and apply industry best practices in chemical process design and safety.
• Support the project management team with technical information and task execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A strong academic record with a focus on chemical engineering principles.
• Familiarity with process simulation software is a strong asset.
• Basic understanding of PFDs, P&IDs, and engineering design principles.
• Good analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks.
• Eagerness to learn and develop professionally.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• A keen interest in process design and consultancy work.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive entry-level salary and comprehensive training programs designed to accelerate professional development. Mentorship from experienced engineers and exposure to diverse projects are key components of this role. The working environment in Paarl, Western Cape is dynamic and supportive. This internship offers a clear pathway to a permanent position for high-performing graduates within a leading engineering consultancy.