Principal Process Design Engineer - Industrial Gases

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Process Design Engineer for Durban operations. The role leads conceptual, FEED, and detailed design phases for major capital projects in industrial gas technologies, including cryogenic and non-cryogenic separation.

The ideal candidate has deep thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and process control expertise, plus strong leadership to manage multiple projects while ensuring safety, efficiency and reliability across KwaZulu-Natal facilities.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering required.
• 12+ years in process design for industrial gas technologies.
• Experience leading large-scale capital projects end-to-end.

Responsibilities

• Lead process design for industrial gas plants, including ASUs.
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications.
• Perform process simulations and mass/energy balances.
• Conduct PHAs, HAZOPs, and safety reviews.
• Provide technical guidance to project teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

UniSim

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in the production and distribution of industrial gases, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Process Design Engineer for their operations in Durban. This senior position requires an individual with extensive expertise in designing complex cryogenic and non-cryogenic separation processes. You will be responsible for leading the conceptual design, front-end engineering design (FEED), and detailed design phases for major capital projects. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and process control as applied to gas separation technologies. This role demands strong leadership capabilities, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. You will play a key role in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and reliability of our client's cutting-edge facilities in the KwaZulu-Natal region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the process design and engineering for industrial gas production plants, including air separation units (ASUs) and other specialized gas processing facilities.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Perform rigorous process simulations and calculations for mass and energy balances, equipment sizing, and performance predictions.
• Conduct and participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), HAZOP studies, and safety reviews throughout the design lifecycle.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to project teams, including engineers, designers, and construction personnel.
• Evaluate and select appropriate process technologies and equipment to meet project requirements and optimize plant performance.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the validation and verification of designs during the construction and commissioning phases.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and standards for process design within the organization.
• Mentor and develop junior process engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in process design engineering, with a significant focus on industrial gas technologies (e.g., cryogenic air separation, hydrogen production, carbon capture).
• Proven experience in leading the process design of large-scale capital projects from conceptualization through to detailed design.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, UniSim, HYSYS) and thermodynamic property packages relevant to industrial gases.
• In-depth knowledge of cryogenic processes, distillation, adsorption, and membrane separation technologies.
• Strong understanding of process safety, including SIL assessments and LOPA.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex technical challenges and drive solutions.
• Experience with project execution and site commissioning support is highly valued.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including private medical aid, life insurance, and an excellent retirement fund.
• Professional development is a priority, with opportunities for advanced training, conference participation, and career progression.
• You will be part of an innovative and safety-conscious organization, contributing to critical infrastructure projects in Durban.
• This role offers the chance to work on technically challenging and rewarding projects in a supportive and collaborative environment.