Lead Process Design Engineer - Fertilizer Production

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 1.700.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Medical insurance

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Lead Process Design Engineer to drive the development of large-scale fertilizer production processes with a focus on safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

You will lead design from concept to implementation, guiding multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex process improvements while meeting regulatory requirements in KwaZulu-Natal.

Formación

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in process design and engineering, with focus on fertilizer production or related chemical industries.
• Demonstrated experience leading process design projects from concept to completion.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, ChemCAD) and CAD tools.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment techniques.

Responsabilidades

• Lead conceptualization, design, and implementation of new and improved chemical processes for fertilizer manufacturing.
• Develop and review process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, equipment specifications, and operating procedures.
• Conduct PHAs, including HAZOP studies, to ensure safety and compliance.
• Manage engineering projects with scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams throughout project lifecycles.
• Oversee pilot studies and scale-up for successful technology transfer to production facilities.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for stakeholders.

Conocimientos

Process design

PFDs

P&IDs

HAZOP

PSM

Project management

Leadership

Aspen Plus

Educación

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Herramientas

CAD software

ChemCAD

Aspen Plus

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client is a prominent leader in the agricultural chemical sector, actively seeking an experienced Lead Process Design Engineer to enhance their operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal role involves spearheading the design and development of advanced processes for fertilizer production, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. You will be at the forefront of technological innovation, managing complex projects from conception through to implementation. The successful candidate will possess extensive knowledge of chemical engineering principles applied to large-scale industrial processes, with a proven track record in project leadership and meticulous attention to detail. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of fertilizer manufacturing in KwaZulu-Natal, contributing significantly to agricultural productivity and sustainability while advancing your career within a reputable organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of new and improved chemical processes for fertilizer manufacturing.
• Develop and review process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, equipment specifications, and operating procedures.
• Conduct thorough process hazard analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP studies, to ensure operational safety.
• Manage engineering projects, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, civil engineers, operations, safety) throughout project lifecycles.
• Evaluate and select appropriate process technologies and equipment to meet production and quality targets.
• Oversee pilot studies and scale-up efforts, ensuring successful technology transfer to production facilities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues to optimize performance and minimize downtime.
• Ensure compliance with all national and international environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to support team development and project goals.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, reports, and presentations for stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in process design and engineering, with a strong focus on fertilizer production or related chemical industries.
• Demonstrated experience in leading process design projects from concept to completion.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD) and CAD tools.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical reactions, thermodynamics, unit operations, and materials science relevant to fertilizer production.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment techniques.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, execution, and control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Residency or willingness to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Professional Engineer (PE) registration is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive annual bonus structure.
• Full medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous annual leave and personal development days.
• Opportunities for international training and professional growth.
• Company-sponsored retirement plan.
• Potential for relocation assistance for exceptional candidates.
• A significant role in a key industry impacting agriculture, based in the heart of Pietermaritzburg.