Principal Process Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Performance bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development and training

Hybrid work options in Stellenbosch

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Principal Process Engineer to lead the design, optimization, and troubleshooting of oil and gas processing facilities in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will drive complex projects, mentor engineers, and push continuous improvement across operations.

You will apply process simulations (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), develop PFDs and P&IDs, and ensure adherence to safety and environmental regulations. Hybrid work options are available for the Stellenbosch area.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in process engineering within Oil & Gas.
• Proven track record of leading complex process engineering projects from conception to completion.
• Expertise in process simulation, design, and optimization software (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamic principles, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Excellent understanding of safety and environmental regulations in the industry.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to mentor effectively.
• Experience working in or with facilities in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of process engineering solutions for oil and gas facilities.
• Optimize existing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
• Conduct feasibility studies, conceptual design, and detailed engineering for new projects.
• Perform process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Troubleshoot operational issues and develop effective solutions.
• Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and other engineering documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers, fostering technical development within the team.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, vendors, and clients.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in process engineering technology and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Oil & Gas processing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Process Engineer to join their esteemed team in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This senior role demands exceptional technical expertise in process design, optimization, and troubleshooting for oil and gas facilities. You will be instrumental in leading complex projects, mentoring junior engineers, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The Principal Process Engineer will play a key role in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance of our client's processing operations. This is a unique opportunity to leverage extensive experience and shape the future of process engineering in a strategically important area.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of process engineering solutions for oil and gas facilities.
• Optimize existing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
• Conduct feasibility studies, conceptual design, and detailed engineering for new projects.
• Perform process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Troubleshoot operational issues and develop effective solutions.
• Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and other engineering documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers, fostering technical development within the team.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, vendors, and clients.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in process engineering technology and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the Oil & Gas industry.
• Proven track record of leading complex process engineering projects from conception to completion.
• Expertise in process simulation, design, and optimization software.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamic principles, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Excellent understanding of safety and environmental regulations applicable to the industry.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to mentor effectively.
• Experience working in or with facilities in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, including a leading salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and international assignments are available.
• The company promotes a healthy work-life balance and offers flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options, for its employees based in the vibrant Stellenbosch area.
• Join a forward-thinking organization committed to innovation and employee success.