Lead Process Development Engineer

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a client in Benoni, Gauteng, to hire an experienced Lead Process Development Engineer. The role centers on conceptualizing, designing, and optimizing new process technologies and plant modifications, while leading a team of engineers to deliver safe, robust solutions.

You will drive feasibility studies and FEED, collaborate across disciplines, mentor junior engineers, and translate innovative ideas into large‑scale industrial processes that meet safety and environmental

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field
• 8+ years in process development and design in Oil & Gas
• Proven experience with process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II, UniSim)
• Strong thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and mass transfer knowledge
• Experience leading engineering teams and managing project deliverables
• Familiarity with API and ASME codes and standards
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Strong communication, interpersonal and presentation skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced project environment

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to optimize designs and evaluate performance
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations, heat exchanger design, and separation process design
• Lead feasibility studies and FEED for new process units and plant upgrades
• Ensure process designs comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation disciplines for integrated delivery
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues during project execution and plant operation
• Manage process engineering deliverables and timelines for assigned projects
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers, fostering technical development
• Stay updated on new technologies and industry best practices in process development

Skills

Leadership

Team mentoring

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

UniSim

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic force in the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking an experienced Lead Process Development Engineer to join their innovative team in Benoni, Gauteng . This role is central to the conceptualization, design, and optimization of new process technologies and plant modifications. You will lead a team of process engineers in developing robust and efficient process designs, conducting feasibility studies, and ensuring projects are delivered safely and effectively. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemical engineering principles, process simulation, and a proven track record in project execution within the energy industry. This is a key position offering the opportunity to shape the future of our client's technological advancements. We are looking for a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership and technical skills, capable of driving innovation and mentoring junior engineers. Your expertise will be crucial in translating conceptual ideas into viable, large-scale industrial processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to optimize designs and evaluate performance using software like Aspen HYSYS or PRO/II.
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations, heat exchanger design, and separation process design.
• Lead feasibility studies and front-end engineering design (FEED) for new process units and plant upgrades.
• Ensure process designs comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation) to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues during project execution and plant operation.
• Manage process engineering deliverables and timelines for assigned projects.
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers, fostering their technical development.
• Stay updated on new technologies and industry best practices in process development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process development and design, preferably within the Oil & Gas industry.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II, UniSim).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and mass transfer principles.
• Experience in leading engineering teams and managing project deliverables.
• Familiarity with industry codes and standards (e.g., API, ASME).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced project environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off and holiday allowances.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Key role in driving innovation and technological advancement.
• Dynamic and collaborative team atmosphere.