Principal Process Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance incentives

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Process Engineer for our Randburg-based client in Gauteng. The role focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes, improving yields, and reducing costs through advanced process design and technology deployment.

The ideal candidate will have a chemical engineering background with 10+ years in process engineering, strong expertise in Aspen Plus, DCS/PLC control, and proven leadership in cross-functional teams within a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years progressive experience in process engineering in a manufacturing environment.
• Expertise in process design, optimization, simulation (Aspen Plus), and troubleshooting.
• Experience with DCS/PLC and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes for efficiency, yield, and quality.
• Design and implement process modifications with minimal disruption to operations.
• Develop and validate new process technologies.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Lead PHAs and ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance to achieve goals.
• Develop and maintain process documentation (P&IDs, SOPs, control strategies).
• Mentor junior engineers with best practices.
• Oversee installation and commissioning of new equipment and process lines.
• Stay current with industry trends in process engineering and automation.

Skills

Process design

Project management

Leadership

Data analysis

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

DCS/PLC

Statistical SPC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing, is seeking a Principal Process Engineer to join their operations in Randburg, Gauteng . This senior role is vital for optimizing manufacturing processes, driving efficiency improvements, and implementing new technologies to enhance product quality and reduce costs. The Principal Process Engineer will apply their expertise in chemical engineering principles, process design, and control systems to solve complex manufacturing challenges. This is an outstanding opportunity to make a tangible impact on operational excellence within a globally recognized organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, yield, and quality.
• Design and implement process modifications and upgrades, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
• Develop and validate new process technologies and methodologies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process-related issues, implementing corrective actions.
• Lead process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and maintenance teams to achieve project goals.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and control strategies.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on process engineering best practices.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new equipment and process lines.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in process engineering and automation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in process engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven expertise in process design, optimization, simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus), and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and mass transfer.
• Experience with process control systems (DCS/PLC) and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in statistical process control (SPC) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in the specialty chemicals or materials manufacturing industry is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including health insurance and retirement contributions, performance incentives, and excellent opportunities for career growth. The role is based in Randburg, Gauteng , providing access to state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and a supportive, innovation-driven culture.