Principal Chemical Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Annual performance bonus

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement fund contribution

Life assurance

Generous vacation allowance

Learning & development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Principal Chemical Engineer to lead strategic projects and drive operational excellence at a major petrochemical facility. The role combines on-site leadership with remote-focused analysis to optimize process design, safety, and environmental performance.

With 12+ years in refinery/oil & gas, you bring expertise in cracking, reforming, distillation and process simulation (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).

Qualifications

• Minimum MSc/PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• 12+ years in petrochemical or oil and gas with refinery exposure.
• Strong knowledge of cracking, reforming, distillation and polymerization.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical leadership in petrochemical process engineering.
• Lead design, development and implementation of process improvements.
• Conduct advanced simulations and economic evaluations for debottlenecking and expansion.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Communication

Mentoring

Education

MSc or PhD in Chemical Engineering

PE certification desirable

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking an experienced Principal Chemical Engineer to contribute to strategic projects and long-term operational excellence from their key facility in Durban . This senior-level position involves providing expert technical leadership, driving innovation in process design and optimization, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of complex petrochemical plants. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of refinery processes, feedstock optimization, and catalyst technologies. This hybrid role balances essential on-site engagement for critical operational oversight and team collaboration with the flexibility of remote work for focused analysis and strategic planning. You will be a key technical advisor, influencing major capital projects and operational improvements that have a significant impact on the company's bottom line and environmental performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical guidance and leadership in petrochemical process engineering.
• Lead the design, development, and implementation of process improvements for refinery and petrochemical units.
• Conduct advanced process simulations and economic evaluations for debottlenecking and expansion projects.
• Develop and maintain process safety information and manage technical integrity of process assets.
• Oversee HAZOP studies, risk assessments, and ensure compliance with industry safety standards.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project teams to resolve complex technical issues.
• Mentor and guide less experienced chemical engineers, fostering technical growth within the department.
• Evaluate new technologies, catalysts, and equipment for potential implementation.
• Develop and review operating procedures and provide technical support for plant start-ups and shutdowns.
• Represent the company in technical forums and contribute to industry best practices.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in the petrochemical or oil and gas industry, with significant exposure to refinery operations.
• Extensive knowledge of petrochemical processes such as cracking, reforming, distillation, and polymerization.
• Proven experience in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) and dynamic simulation.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and incident investigation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (PE) certification or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Experience with flare systems, combustion, and environmental controls in petrochemical plants.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, along with an annual performance bonus and comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• A substantial retirement fund contribution, life assurance, and generous vacation allowance are included.
• Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and attending industry conferences are actively supported.
• This hybrid role offers flexibility, allowing employees to balance work and personal life while contributing to a significant operation in Durban .