Principal Process Engineer - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits

Paid time off

Travel opportunities

Professional development

Leadership role

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Principal Process Engineer to optimize complex chemical processes, drive innovation, and uphold safety and environmental standards. You will lead technical teams, troubleshoot critical operations, and mentor engineers in a large-scale manufacturing setting.

The role requires 10+ years in chemical process engineering, expertise with Aspen Plus or HYSYS, and strong analytical and communication skills in a demanding industrial environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering.
• Expertise in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistics.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes.
• Analyze processes, identify bottlenecks, and improve yield and efficiency.
• Develop process simulation models to optimize performance.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and operational staff.
• Troubleshoot complex operations and implement corrective actions.

Skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the chemical manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Process Engineer for their facility in Durban . This senior position requires an expert to optimize complex chemical processes, improve efficiency, and ensure the highest standards of safety and environmental compliance. You will be a key technical authority, driving innovation in process design, troubleshooting critical operational issues, and mentoring a team of engineers. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on large-scale industrial operations and contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices in a key coastal city.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes and modifications to existing ones.
• Conduct in-depth process analysis, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to enhance yield, efficiency, and quality.
• Develop and manage process simulation models to predict and optimize operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior process engineers and operational staff.
• Troubleshoot complex operational problems, diagnosing root causes and implementing effective corrective actions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering , preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass transfer principles.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and manage technical teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Generous paid time off and potential for sabbaticals.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• A leading role within a reputable company in Durban 's industrial landscape.
• Commitment to sustainability and employee well-being.