Mechanical Engineer - Process Design

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund contribution

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Mechanical Engineer specializing in Process Design to optimize and implement robust process equipment and systems.

Responsibilities include design of pumps, exchangers, and piping; performing process simulations; producing P&IDs and specs; ensuring ASME/API compliance; and supporting construction, commissioning, and startup with a focus on safety and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 6 years of mechanical design experience focused on process engineering.
• Proficient in Aspen HYSYS or Pro/II and CAD tools.
• Familiar with ASME/API codes and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mechanical process equipment (pumps, heat exchangers, piping).
• Conduct process simulations to determine specifications and performance.
• Prepare detailed drawings, P&IDs, and procurement specifications.
• Ensure designs comply with ASME/API codes and safety standards.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project teams on improvements.
• Provide technical support during construction, commissioning, and startup.
• Perform risk assessments and HAZOP studies related to process safety.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment for potential application.
• Support construction, commissioning, and startup phases of projects.

Skills

Mechanical design

Process engineering

Process simulation

CAD tools

Fluid dynamics

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Mass transfer

ASME/API standards

Project coordination

Communication

Petrochemical/oil & gas experience

ECSA registration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

Pro/II

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer with a specialization in Process Design to join their operations in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role is vital for optimizing and designing process equipment and systems to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. You will be involved in the entire lifecycle of process improvements, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to detailed design, implementation, and performance monitoring. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mindset, a deep understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer, and a proven ability to translate complex process requirements into robust mechanical solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to critical infrastructure projects within a globally recognized organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mechanical process equipment, including pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, and piping systems.
• Conduct process simulations and calculations to determine equipment specifications and performance parameters.
• Prepare detailed engineering drawings, P&IDs, and specifications for equipment procurement and fabrication.
• Ensure designs comply with industry codes, standards (e.g., ASME, API), and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with plant operations, maintenance, and project teams to identify and implement process improvements.
• Troubleshoot operational issues related to mechanical process equipment.
• Perform risk assessments and HAZOP studies related to process safety.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment for potential application.
• Provide technical support during the construction, commissioning, and startup phases of projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in mechanical design, with a focus on process engineering in an industrial setting.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, Pro/II) and CAD tools.
• Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and mass transfer.
• Familiarity with relevant industry codes and standards (ASME, API, etc.).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project coordination skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Experience in the petrochemical, oil and gas, or related process industries is essential.
• Relevant professional registration (e.g., ECSA) is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives.
• The benefits package includes comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund contribution, and life insurance.
• Employees in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal** have access to ongoing professional development, training programs, and opportunities for advancement within the organization.
• The company fosters a safe and supportive working environment, with ample annual leave and other wellness initiatives.