About the Role
Our client, a global leader in engineering and project delivery for the chemical and petrochemical industries, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Chemical Engineer to lead their process design efforts. This senior role is based in **Sandton** and requires extensive expertise in conceptual and detailed process design for complex chemical facilities. You will be responsible for spearheading design projects, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the technical integrity and economic viability of our client's designs. The ideal candidate is a recognized expert in the field, with a proven track record of delivering successful large-scale projects. This is a challenging, on-site position offering the opportunity to shape the future of chemical plant design and contribute to significant industrial developments. Your leadership and technical acumen will be paramount in driving project success and maintaining our client's reputation for excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development of conceptual and detailed process designs for chemical plants and process units.
- Oversee the creation of process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
- Perform and review complex process simulations, mass and energy balances, and hydraulic calculations.
- Ensure designs comply with all relevant engineering standards, codes, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
- Mentor and guide a team of chemical engineers, providing technical leadership and development support.
- Collaborate with project management, clients, and other engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, civil) to ensure seamless project execution.
- Conduct technical reviews and HAZOP studies to ensure the safety and operability of designs.
- Develop cost estimates and economic evaluations for proposed process designs.
- Contribute to business development efforts by providing technical expertise and support.
- Stay at the forefront of process design technologies and best practices.
Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in process design and engineering within the chemical, petrochemical, or related industries.
- Extensive experience in leading the design of major capital projects.
- Deep expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, UNISIM) and P&ID development tools.
- Strong understanding of process safety principles, including HAZOP facilitation and risk assessment.
- Proven ability to manage and mentor engineering teams.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) designation is highly desirable.
- Experience with project lifecycle management and front-end engineering design (FEED).
- Must be willing and able to work on-site in **Sandton**.
Benefits
- Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, reflecting the seniority of this role.
- Comprehensive benefits include premium medical aid, a generous retirement fund, and life insurance.
- Opportunities for professional growth include leadership training, advanced technical courses, and international conference participation.
- This role provides the chance to work on challenging and impactful projects within a leading engineering firm.
- Join a team of industry experts committed to delivering innovative solutions.