Mechanical Engineer - Process Design & Optimization

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 850,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive medical coverage

Paid time off and holidays

Retirement plan contributions

Opportunities for professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with expertise in Process Design and Optimization to join a leading chemical processing firm in Nelspruit. This hybrid role combines on-site analysis with remote modeling and detailed documentation.

You will design and optimize mechanical aspects of chemical processing systems, develop PFDs and P&IDs, conduct simulations, and ensure compliance with ASME/API standards. 5+ years in process design and strong CAD/process software skills are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
• At least 5 years of process design and optimization experience in chemical/industrial processing
• Proficiency with process simulation software and CAD tools

Responsibilities

• Design and specify mechanical components for process equipment, including pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, and piping systems
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs with focus on mechanical integrity and operability
• Conduct process simulations and performance analyses to identify optimization opportunities
• Evaluate existing equipment and processes, recommending modifications to enhance performance and reduce costs
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards (ASME, API), safety regulations, and environmental requirements
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including chemical engineers, project managers, and maintenance personnel
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues within processing plants and provide technical solutions
• Manage equipment procurement, installation, and commissioning

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Critical thinking

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading chemical processing firm, is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with expertise in Process Design and Optimization to join their team in Nelspruit. This hybrid role combines on-site process analysis and collaborative design sessions with remote work for detailed modeling and documentation. You will be instrumental in designing, evaluating, and improving mechanical aspects of chemical processing systems to enhance efficiency, safety, and output. This position requires a strong understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and process equipment design. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on critical projects that impact the company's operational excellence and contribute to sustainable industrial practices. We are looking for an analytical and innovative engineer who can identify and implement process improvements effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and specify mechanical components for process equipment, including pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, and piping systems.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) with a focus on mechanical integrity and operability.
• Conduct process simulations and performance analyses to identify areas for optimization and efficiency improvements.
• Evaluate existing equipment and processes, recommending modifications or upgrades to enhance performance and reduce operating costs.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards (e.g., ASME, API), safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including chemical engineers, project managers, and maintenance personnel.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues within processing plants and provide technical solutions.
• Manage aspects of equipment procurement, installation, and commissioning.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process design, mechanical equipment specification, and optimization within a chemical or industrial processing environment.
• Strong knowledge of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and mass transfer principles.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks).
• Experience with P&IDs and mechanical equipment specification is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities, suited for a hybrid work model.
• Familiarity with safety standards such as HAZOP is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical coverage.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Retirement plan contributions.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training.
• Work on impactful process improvement projects.
• Hybrid work flexibility.