Lead Process Design Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement planning

Performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Process Design Engineer in Cape Town to drive conceptualization and execution of advanced chemical process designs. You will oversee the design lifecycle, mentor a team, and coordinate with project managers and other engineering disciplines to deliver robust solutions.

Ideal candidates have 10+ years in chemical process design, strong HYSYS/Aspen Plus and CAD experience, and P.Eng/ECSSA eligibility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering; a Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical process design, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software (e.g., HYSYS, Aspen Plus) and CAD tools.
• Demonstrated expertise in HAZOP, LOPA, and other risk assessment methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of chemical plant operations, equipment, and instrumentation.
• Proven ability to lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• P.Eng registration or eligibility for registration with ECSA is required.
• Experience in the fine chemicals or specialty chemicals sector is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the process design of complex chemical plants and modifications, ensuring compliance with all relevant codes and standards.
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, and material balances for new and existing processes.
• Perform process simulations and optimizations to enhance efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct rigorous process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety recommendations.
• Manage design project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Mentor and guide a team of process engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and technical rigor.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, instrumentation engineers, and construction teams.
• Review and approve process design packages submitted by internal teams and external consultants.
• Ensure all designs are aligned with environmental regulations and sustainability targets.

Job description

About the Role

Join a forward-thinking chemical manufacturing firm as a Lead Process Design Engineer in the scenic city of Cape Town, Western Cape . This leadership role is crucial for driving the conceptualization and execution of innovative chemical process designs that align with market demands and sustainability goals. You will be at the forefront of developing robust and efficient engineering solutions, overseeing the design lifecycle from initial concept through to detailed engineering. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence major capital projects and contribute to the company's strategic growth. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a passion for engineering excellence and a proven track record of leading successful design initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the process design of complex chemical plants and modifications, ensuring compliance with all relevant codes and standards.
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, and material balances for new and existing processes.
• Perform process simulations and optimizations to enhance efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct rigorous process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety recommendations.
• Manage design project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Mentor and guide a team of process engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and technical rigor.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, instrumentation engineers, and construction teams.
• Review and approve process design packages submitted by internal teams and external consultants.
• Ensure all designs are aligned with environmental regulations and sustainability targets.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering; a Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical process design, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software (e.g., HYSYS, Aspen Plus) and CAD tools.
• Demonstrated expertise in HAZOP, LOPA, and other risk assessment methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of chemical plant operations, equipment, and instrumentation.
• Proven ability to lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong presentation abilities.
• P.Eng registration or eligibility for registration with ECSA is required.
• Experience in the fine chemicals or specialty chemicals sector is advantageous.

Benefits

This role offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package encompassing medical and retirement planning. Our client provides significant opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training programs and involvement in high-profile international projects. The work environment in Cape Town is dynamic and supportive, encouraging innovation and collaboration. You will be part of a company that values its employees and invests in their long-term success.