Lead Chemical Engineer - Process Design

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement savings

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Chemical Engineer in Cape Town to spearhead the design and development of innovative chemical processes for new products and plant expansions. The role requires extensive process design expertise and strong leadership to guide a team of engineers.

The ideal candidate has a track record in petrochemicals, fine chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, with proficiency in HYSYS/ChemCAD and PSM knowledge. Cape Town, a challenging, growth-oriented environment, awaits.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering required.
• 10+ years in chemical process design, with at least 3 years in a lead role.
• Experience designing processes for petrochemicals, fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
• Proficiency in process safety management (PSM) and industry standards.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration or eligibility is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of complex chemical processes from pilot to full production.
• Create PFDs, P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specs.
• Conduct HAZOPs and ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with R&D, project management, and construction teams.
• Mentor and guide a team of process engineers.
• Optimize existing processes for efficiency, yield, and cost.
• Support plant commissioning and start-up phases.
• Stay updated on industry advancements and technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Decision making

Education

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

ChemCAD

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in the specialty chemicals sector, is actively seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in Process Design. This critical role, based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA , will spearhead the design and development of innovative chemical processes for new product lines and plant expansions. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in chemical engineering principles, a strong portfolio of successful process design projects, and exceptional leadership capabilities. This is an unparalleled opportunity to influence the future of chemical manufacturing within a forward-thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of complex chemical processes from pilot scale to full commercial production.


• Oversee the creation of detailed process engineering deliverables, including PFDs, P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specifications.


• Conduct rigorous process safety analyses (e.g., HAZOP) and ensure designs meet all safety and environmental regulations.


• Collaborate closely with R&D, project management, and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.


• Evaluate and select appropriate technologies and equipment for new process installations and upgrades.


• Mentor and guide a team of process engineers, fostering technical excellence and professional development.


• Optimize existing processes for improved efficiency, yield, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.


• Provide technical expertise and support during plant commissioning and start-up phases.


• Stay abreast of industry advancements and emerging technologies in chemical process design.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.


• A minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical process design, with at least 3 years in a lead or senior engineering role.


• Demonstrated expertise in designing chemical processes for various applications (e.g., petrochemicals, fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals).


• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD) and CAD tools.


• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM) and relevant industry standards.


• Proven leadership skills with experience managing engineering teams and projects.


• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information effectively.


• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration or eligibility is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly attractive salary package, with an annual remuneration of ZAR , reflecting the seniority and expertise required for this role. Employees will benefit from a comprehensive benefits package, including top-tier medical aid, retirement savings, and performance-based bonuses. We invest in our employees' growth through continuous training, development programs, and opportunities to work on challenging, cutting-edge projects. Join a world-class team driving innovation in the chemical industry in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA .