Principal Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation package

Annual bonus

Long-term incentive plans

Premium health coverage

Retirement contributions

Professional development allowances

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Chemical Engineer to drive global process optimization from Mossel Bay, remotely. You will leverage advanced analytics, simulation tools, and deep process knowledge to identify improvements across sites, mentoring teams in a virtual setting and delivering tangible savings.

The role requires a strong track record in leading large optimization initiatives, plus strategic partnership with operations and R&D to ensure alignment with sustainability goals.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years in chemical engineering with process optimization focus.
• Proven track record leading large optimization projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic process optimization programs across multiple units.
• Utilize advanced data analytics, statistical modeling, and process simulation to identify KPIs and improvements.
• Design and oversee pilot studies and implementation plans for process enhancements.
• Develop business cases and ROI analyses for proposed optimization projects.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams remotely.
• Collaborate with operations, R&D, and management for alignment and execution.
• Stay updated on new technologies and sustainable engineering practices.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to senior leadership.
• Champion process safety and environmental stewardship throughout optimization.
• Develop and maintain KPIs and reporting mechanisms.

Skills

Data analytics

Statistical modeling

Process simulation

Leadership

Remote mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in energy and resource management, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Chemical Engineer to drive process optimization initiatives. This is a fully remote position, based out of Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA , focusing on enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and profitability of our client's core chemical operations. You will leverage advanced analytical techniques, simulation tools, and deep process knowledge to identify and implement significant improvements across diverse manufacturing sites. This role requires a visionary thinker with a strong track record in leading complex optimization projects and mentoring technical teams remotely. The ideal candidate is a strategic partner, capable of translating intricate data into actionable insights and driving tangible results in a virtual environment. If you are passionate about pioneering sustainable chemical processes and seeking a senior, remote leadership opportunity, this role is an exceptional fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic process optimization programs across multiple operational units.
• Utilize advanced data analytics, statistical modeling, and process simulation to identify key performance drivers and areas for improvement.
• Design and oversee pilot studies and implementation plans for process enhancements.
• Develop business cases and ROI analyses for proposed optimization projects.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Collaborate closely with operations, R&D, and management to ensure alignment and successful execution of optimization strategies.
• Stay abreast of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in process optimization and sustainable engineering.
• Prepare and present comprehensive technical reports and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Champion best practices in process safety and environmental stewardship throughout optimization efforts.
• Develop and maintain key process performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting mechanisms.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical engineering, with a strong focus on process optimization and operational excellence.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced process modeling, simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS), and statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab).
• Proven experience leading large-scale optimization projects with measurable impact.
• Strong understanding of process control, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills, adapted for remote work.
• Strategic thinking and the ability to translate complex technical challenges into business solutions.
• Experience mentoring and developing technical talent remotely.
• Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma principles is highly desirable.
• Must be able to work effectively from a remote location within or near Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA .

Benefits

Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a substantial base salary, annual bonus, and long-term incentive plans. Comprehensive benefits include premium health coverage, generous retirement contributions, and significant professional development allowances. This role provides the unique advantage of remote flexibility combined with the opportunity to influence global operations and drive sustainability initiatives within a leading energy company. Enjoy a high-impact role with substantial autonomy and visibility.