Principal Chemical Process Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Principal Chemical Process Engineer for a major petrochemical client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role centers on design, optimization and troubleshooting of large-scale chemical processes with a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency and sustainability.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelors or Masters in Chemical Engineering with 10+ years in process design and engineering, plus proven experience in process simulation and HAZOP/PSM in heavy industries.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical process design and engineering, preferably within petrochemical or related heavy industries.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation, P&ID development, and equipment design.
• Thorough understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and experience conducting HAZOP studies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of chemical processes from conceptual design through detailed engineering and commissioning.
• Perform complex process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications.
• Conduct hazard and operability studies (HAZOP) and other process safety assessments.
• Provide expert technical support for plant operations, troubleshooting and improvements.
• Collaborate with project management, procurement and construction teams to ensure project success.
• Ensure all designs comply with industry codes, standards and environmental regulations.

Skills

Process design

Process simulation

HAZOP

Mentoring

Project collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

PFD/PID development

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly experienced and accomplished Principal Chemical Process Engineer to join their world-class engineering division in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This senior position is critical for the design, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex chemical processes within our large-scale manufacturing facilities. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in process design, simulation, scale-up, and plant operations, with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability. You will provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in process technology. This is an outstanding opportunity to influence key operational decisions and contribute to the strategic growth of a leading industrial enterprise in **Richards Bay**. The role requires a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles and practical experience in a demanding industrial setting. Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of chemical processes from conceptual design through to detailed engineering and commissioning.
• Perform complex process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Conduct hazard and operability studies (HAZOP) and other process safety assessments.
• Provide expert technical support for plant operations, troubleshooting operational issues, and implementing improvements.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and process enhancements to improve efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Mentor and guide junior chemical engineers, fostering their technical development.
• Collaborate with project management, procurement, and construction teams to ensure successful project execution.
• Ensure all process designs comply with relevant industry codes, standards, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical process design and engineering, preferably within the petrochemical or related heavy industries.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation, P&ID development, and equipment design.
• Thorough understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and experience conducting HAZOP studies.