Lead Chemical Process Design Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Medical aid with employer contribution

Life insurance

Disability cover

Paid time off

Professional development funding

Home office setup allowance

Remote work infrastructure

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Chemical Process Design Engineer to drive innovative projects from concept to execution. This remote-first role, based in Cape Town, requires senior expertise in process design, PFDs/P&IDs, PHAs, and team leadership.

You will guide cross-functional teams and ensure safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate brings 10+ years in chemical engineering, strong simulation tool skills (Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD), and proven ability to manage remote teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years in chemical process design with leadership experience.
• Expert in process simulation (Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD) and CAD tools.
• Strong knowledge of PSM and risk assessment methods.
• Proven ability to lead remote engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead PFDs and P&IDs for new and existing processes.
• Perform detailed engineering calculations for sizing and transfer.
• Oversee equipment selection to meet project requirements.
• Conduct PHAs/HAZOP to ensure inherent safety.
• Develop operating procedures and training materials.
• Manage project scope, schedule and budget.
• Mentor junior engineers and liaise with clients and vendors.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability goals.
• Evaluate emerging technologies to improve efficiency.

Skills

Process design

Remote team leadership

Project management

Hazard analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelors/Masters in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

CHEMCAD

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished and visionary Lead Chemical Process Design Engineer to spearhead innovative projects within their dynamic organization. This role is a fully remote opportunity, based in **Cape Town, Western Cape**, offering exceptional flexibility and the chance to contribute to cutting‑edge chemical solutions from your home office. You will be responsible for the conceptualization, development, and detailed design of new chemical processes and the modification of existing ones, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and environmental standards. This position requires a strategic thinker with a proven ability to lead complex design projects from initiation through to execution. The ideal candidate will possess a deep technical expertise in chemical process design, coupled with strong leadership and project management skills, and thrive in a collaborative, remote‑first environment. You will work with a team of talented engineers, driving forward advancements in areas such as specialty chemicals and sustainable manufacturing. This role is crucial for translating research breakthroughs into tangible, scalable industrial processes. We are dedicated to supporting our remote workforce with the tools and communication channels necessary for success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams) and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) for new and existing chemical processes.
• Perform detailed engineering calculations for equipment sizing, heat and mass transfer, fluid dynamics, and reaction engineering.
• Oversee the selection and specification of process equipment, ensuring compliance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Conduct rigorous process hazard analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP studies, to ensure inherent safety in design.
• Develop operating procedures, process manuals, and training materials for new processes.
• Manage project scope, schedule, and budget for process design activities, coordinating with project managers and other engineering disciplines.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior process engineers.
• Liaise with clients, vendors, and regulatory bodies as required.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant environmental regulations and sustainability targets.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies into process designs to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• At least 10 years of experience in chemical process design, with a significant portion in a lead or senior capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD) and CAD tools.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and risk assessment methodologies.
• Strong understanding of various unit operations and their application in diverse chemical industries.
• Excellent project management skills, with experience managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a remote engineering team.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, essential for effective remote collaboration.
• Ability to effectively present complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Membership in a professional engineering body is advantageous.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, commensurate with experience.
• As a fully remote role, you'll enjoy unparalleled flexibility and work-life integration.
• Our client provides an extensive benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid with significant employer contributions, life insurance, and disability cover.
• Employees receive generous paid time off, including annual leave, public holidays, and sick days.
• Opportunities for professional development are actively encouraged, with funding available for relevant courses, conferences, and further education.
• A dedicated home office setup allowance is provided.
• You’ll also be part of a forward-thinking company culture that values innovation and employee well-being, supported by robust remote work infrastructure.