Principal Chemical Process Engineer - Lead Design & Safety

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

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.