Operations Process Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Operations Process Engineer for our petrochemical client in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role focuses on analyzing, designing, and improving chemical processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality, working hands-on with plant operators and management.

You will use process simulation tools, apply PSM and hazard analysis, and contribute to continuous improvement by optimizing energy use and waste reduction, while developing SOPs and supporting equipment

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum 4 years' experience in process engineering within chemical/petrochemical industries.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, thermodynamics and fluid dynamics.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis techniques.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and monitor plant operational data to identify trends and areas for process improvement.
• Develop and implement process modifications to improve yield, reduce energy consumption and minimize waste.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Use process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) to model and optimize process parameters.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and develop effective solutions.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams on equipment reliability and troubleshooting.
• Prepare technical reports, recommendations, and presentations for management.
• Assist in the design and implementation of new process equipment or modifications.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for plant operations.

Skills

Process simulation

Process safety management

Thermodynamics

Fluid dynamics

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a detail-oriented Operations Process Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This is an on-site position, critical for hands-on involvement in optimizing plant operations. You will focus on analyzing, designing, and improving chemical processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, process simulation, and statistical analysis. You will work closely with plant operators and management to implement best practices and troubleshoot operational challenges, ensuring the smooth and profitable functioning of the facility. This role is vital for maintaining high operational standards and driving continuous improvement within a complex industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and monitor plant operational data to identify trends and areas for process improvement.
• Develop and implement process modifications to improve yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Use process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) to model and optimize process parameters.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and develop effective solutions.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams on equipment reliability and troubleshooting.
• Prepare technical reports, recommendations, and presentations for management.
• Assist in the design and implementation of new process equipment or modifications.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for plant operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in process engineering within the chemical, petrochemical, or a similar process industry.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Proficiency in process simulation software is essential.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with plant personnel.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in an industrial plant environment.
• Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Nelspruit area and work on-site.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan options. You will be part of a well-established company with a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence. Opportunities for professional development and further training in specialized areas of process engineering are available. This role offers the chance to work on critical plant operations and contribute directly to the company's success. A stable work environment and opportunities for career advancement within the organization are provided.