Lead Process Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Bonuses and long-term incentives

Premium health coverage

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Process Engineer for its Port Elizabeth operations. The role focuses on leading large-scale petrochemical process design projects, mentoring junior engineers, and driving innovation in refining and petrochemical processes. The ideal candidate will have a master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering, 10+ years in petrochemical process engineering, and a Pr.

Eng. designation is highly preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering required.
• Over 10 years' experience in process engineering within petrochemicals.
• Proven track record leading major capital projects (new plants, debottlenecks).
• Pr. Eng. designation highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of large-scale petrochemical processes with technical accuracy according to specs.
• Mentor a team of process engineers and designers.
• Oversee process simulations, calculations, and P&IDs for complex units.
• Perform rigorous technical reviews of designs, proposals and submittals.
• Collaborate with project management to deliver on time, on budget, and with safety and quality.
• Act as technical advisor on process matters for plant operations and capital projects.

Skills

Process design leadership

Mentoring

Stakeholder management

Technical guidance

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) designation

Tools

P&IDs

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly experienced and influential Lead Process Engineer specializing in the petrochemical sector for their operations in Port Elizabeth . This senior role involves leading complex process design projects, mentoring junior engineers, and driving innovation in refining and petrochemical processes. You will be responsible for ensuring the technical integrity, efficiency, and profitability of major projects, working closely with stakeholders across engineering, operations, and management. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a strategic vision for optimizing petrochemical production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of large-scale petrochemical processes, ensuring technical accuracy and adherence to project specifications.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a team of process engineers and designers.
• Oversee process simulations, calculations, and the development of P&IDs for complex units.
• Conduct rigorous technical reviews of designs, proposals, and contractor submittals.
• Collaborate with project management to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest safety and quality standards.
• Act as a key technical advisor on process-related matters for plant operations and capital projects.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• Over 10 years of extensive experience in process engineering within the petrochemical industry .
• Proven track record in leading process design for major capital projects (e.g., new plant builds, significant debottlenecking).
• Expert knowledge of relevant process technologies, equipment, and industry best practices.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) designation is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Premium health coverage, retirement plans, and long-term incentives.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
• A dynamic hybrid work environment in the coastal city of Port Elizabeth .
• Chance to shape the future of petrochemical operations for a major industry player.