Principal Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Processes

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Annual performance bonus

Medical and dental benefits

Retirement plan

International training programs

Job summary

Placements24 represents a global petrochemical leader recruiting a Principal Chemical Engineer to join the core technical team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role focuses on design, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex petrochemical processes.

You will lead large-scale process improvement projects, drive safe operation, and mentor engineering and operations staff across sites. Expertise in process simulation (Aspen Plus, UniSim) and petrochemical unit operations is

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering with petrochemical specialization.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in petrochemicals or refining.
• Experience in process design, simulation, and troubleshooting of core units.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and optimization of petrochemical processes.
• Develop advanced process control strategies to enhance efficiency.
• Model and simulate processes using state-of-the-art software.
• Mentor engineering and operations staff across sites.
• Lead major process improvement projects from concept to completion.
• Evaluate new technologies for implementation and safety reviews.
• Collaborate with R&D to scale new products and processes.
• Analyze data to identify yield improvements and cost reductions.
• Contribute to long-term strategic plans for asset management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Problem solving

Team mentorship

Operational excellence

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

UniSim

APC systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global powerhouse in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Chemical Engineer to join their core technical team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior leadership position will focus on the design, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex petrochemical processes. You will play a crucial role in evaluating new technologies, leading large-scale process improvement projects, and providing expert technical guidance to engineering and operations teams across multiple sites. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of petrochemical unit operations, advanced simulation tools, and a proven ability to drive significant operational efficiencies and safety enhancements. This is a strategic role within a leading organization, offering significant influence and career advancement opportunities in the vibrant industrial hub of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and optimization of petrochemical processes, including refining, cracking, and polymerization.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies to enhance efficiency and stability.
• Conduct in-depth process modeling and simulation using state-of-the-art software.
• Provide expert technical support and mentorship to engineering and operational staff.
• Lead major process improvement projects from concept through to completion.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies for implementation in petrochemical operations.
• Perform rigorous process safety reviews and ensure compliance with stringent industry standards.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to commercialize new products and processes.
• Analyze complex operational data to identify opportunities for yield improvement and cost reduction.
• Contribute to the development of long-term strategic plans for process technology and asset management.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in petrochemicals.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in the petrochemical or refining industry.
• Extensive experience in process design, simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus, UniSim), and troubleshooting of core petrochemical units.
• Proven track record of leading complex engineering projects and driving significant improvements.
• Deep understanding of thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and fluid dynamics relevant to petrochemical processes.
• Expertise in process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment methodologies.
• Exceptional analytical, problem‑solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with advanced process control (APC) systems is highly desirable.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to other company sites as needed in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a substantial base salary, annual performance bonus, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and a generous retirement plan. This role is based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, and provides a hybrid work arrangement, offering flexibility and work-life balance. Employees benefit from unparalleled career development opportunities, access to international training programs, and the chance to work on challenging, high-impact projects. Join a company that values innovation, safety, and employee growth, and play a key role in shaping the future of the petrochemical industry.