Lead Process Design Engineer — Chemical Plants, Cape Town

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

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.