Lead Chemical Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Chemical Engineer in Midrand to spearhead major petrochemical projects. You will oversee a skilled team, guide design and implementation from feasibility through commissioning, and drive safe, efficient operations in a hybrid work setting.

Responsibilities include mentoring engineers, improving process efficiency, ensuring safety compliance, and coordinating with procurement, construction, and operations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• At least 10 years in petrochemical industry, with 3+ years in leadership.
• Expertise in cracking, reforming, polymerization, and distillation.
• Experience in project management methodologies and tools.
• Strong knowledge of PSM and HAZOP.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects.
• Experience in a hybrid work environment.
• Eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and execution of large-scale petrochemical projects from feasibility to commissioning.
• Mentor and manage a team of chemical engineers, providing technical guidance.
• Develop and implement process solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
• Oversee process integrity, ensuring compliance with standards, safety, and client specs.
• Collaborate with project managers, procurement, construction, and operations for seamless delivery.
• Conduct PHAs and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Prepare detailed engineering reports and project documentation.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices.
• Contribute to strategic planning and long-term development of petrochemical operations.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

Team mentoring

Process safety management

Hazop studies

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead critical projects within their petrochemical division, based in Midrand, Gauteng . This role demands a strategic thinker capable of managing complex chemical processes from conceptualization through to implementation and optimization. You will be responsible for leading a team of engineers, ensuring project timelines are met, budgets are adhered to, and the highest standards of safety and quality are maintained. This is a hybrid role, offering a balance between collaborative in-office work and focused remote effort. You will play a key role in driving innovation and efficiency in our client's advanced petrochemical facilities, contributing to their continued success in the global market. The position requires a deep understanding of petrochemical processes and a strong leadership aptitude.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and execution of large-scale petrochemical projects, from feasibility studies to commissioning.
• Manage and mentor a team of chemical engineers, providing technical guidance and fostering professional growth.
• Develop and implement innovative process solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
• Oversee the technical integrity of processes, ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and client specifications.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, procurement, construction, and operations teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Prepare detailed engineering reports, technical specifications, and project documentation.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in the petrochemical industry.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and long-term development of the company's petrochemical operations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the petrochemical industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical processes such as cracking, reforming, polymerization, and distillation.
• Proven experience in project management methodologies and tools.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and complex projects.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) and CAD tools.
• Experience in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote and on-site collaboration.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including performance-based bonuses and comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• This hybrid role provides the advantage of structured collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility of remote work.
• Opportunities for professional development, continuous training, and attending industry conferences are provided.
• You will work with cutting-edge technology in a supportive and challenging environment.
• A relocation assistance package may be available for eligible candidates relocating to the Midrand area.
• Join a company that is committed to innovation, sustainability, and employee well-being.