Principal Chemical Engineer - Refinery Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1.800.000 - 2.400.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Relocation assistance

International travel opportunities

Training & development

Executive-level benefits

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 seeks a Principal Chemical Engineer in Mossel Bay with 15+ years in refinery operations and project leadership. You will guide design, optimization, and safe operation of refinery processes, and lead major upgrades with cross-functional teams.

Expertise in crude processing, hydrocracking, and distillation, plus proficiency in Aspen HYSYS and PRO/II, is required. This role emphasizes safety, risk management, and strategic tech innovation in a premier energy facility.

Qualifikationen

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 15+ years in refinery operations, process engineering, and project management.
• Deep knowledge of crude oil processing and refining units.
• Proven track record leading large refinery projects.
• Experience with process simulation tools such as Aspen HYSYS and PRO/II.
• Strong safety, environmental, and risk management understanding.

Aufgaben

• Provide senior technical leadership and expert guidance on all aspects of refinery operations and process design.
• Lead complex engineering projects, including process upgrades, debottlenecking, and new unit installations.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimise refinery performance, maximise product yield, and minimise operational costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Conduct advanced process analysis, troubleshooting, and root cause failure analysis for critical equipment and processes.
• Mentor and develop a team of chemical engineers and technical specialists, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Collaborate with management and other departments to align engineering initiatives with business objectives.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and process innovations to enhance refinery efficiency and sustainability.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and project proposals.
• Act as a key technical point of contact for external stakeholders, regulators, and vendors.

Kenntnisse

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Ausbildung

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration desirable

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the oil and gas refining sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Chemical Engineer to join their prestigious team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This senior leadership role is instrumental in driving operational excellence, ensuring the safety and efficiency of complex refinery processes, and championing technological advancements. You will provide expert technical guidance, manage critical projects, and contribute to the strategic direction of the refinery. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact within a vital industry. The position is based at our client's state-of-the-art facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , a key operational hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide senior technical leadership and expert guidance on all aspects of refinery operations and process design.
• Lead complex engineering projects, including process upgrades, debottlenecking, and new unit installations.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimise refinery performance, maximise product yield, and minimise operational costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Conduct advanced process analysis, troubleshooting, and root cause failure analysis for critical equipment and processes.
• Mentor and develop a team of chemical engineers and technical specialists, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Collaborate with management and other departments to align engineering initiatives with business objectives.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and process innovations to enhance refinery efficiency and sustainability.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and project proposals.
• Act as a key technical point of contact for external stakeholders, regulators, and vendors.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in refinery operations, process engineering, and project management.
• Extensive knowledge of crude oil processing, downstream refining units (e.g., FCC, hydrocracking, distillation), and associated technologies.
• Proven track record in leading large-scale refinery projects and operational improvements.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) and advanced process control strategies.
• Deep understanding of refinery safety standards, environmental regulations, and risk management.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Outstanding leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and complex project budgets.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration or equivalent is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a top-tier remuneration package, including executive-level benefits, performance incentives, and comprehensive relocation assistance.
• Opportunities for international travel and exposure to global best practices are available.
• The company is committed to the professional growth of its employees, providing extensive training and development programs.
• You will work in a dynamic and challenging environment in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , contributing to the energy security of the region.
• This role offers significant career advancement opportunities within a world-class organisation.