Principal Process Engineer - Chemical Processing

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Life insurance

Provident fund

Training & education support

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban invites a Principal Process Engineer to lead design, optimization, and safe operation of advanced chemical processes at a major facility in KwaZulu-Natal. You will drive feasibility studies, PFD/P&ID development, and scale-up efforts across cross-functional teams.

The role demands a decade of experience, strong leadership, and proven ability to deliver efficient, compliant solutions in the chemical and energy sectors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years of process engineering experience in chemical manufacturing or energy.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus or HYSYS and CAD tools.
• Strong knowledge of unit operations, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer.
• Experience with process design, scale-up, and troubleshooting of complex systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Experience with PHA methodologies and safety management systems.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams; comply with environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of chemical processes, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct feasibility studies, process simulations, and economic evaluations for new and existing projects.
• Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Oversee process hazard analyses (PHAs) such as HAZOP studies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior process engineers.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including R&D, operations, and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, regulations, and environmental policies.
• Stay current with advancements in process engineering technologies and methodologies relevant to the South African energy sector.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in chemical manufacturing and energy solutions, is seeking an exceptional Principal Process Engineer to join their state-of-the-art facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role is crucial for driving innovation, optimizing existing processes, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of complex chemical plants. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in process design, troubleshooting, and scale-up, with a strong focus on efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. You will be at the forefront of developing and implementing advanced processing technologies, contributing significantly to the company's competitive edge in the chemical and energy markets. This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead impactful projects and mentor a team of talented engineers in the industrial hub of Durban.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of chemical processes, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct feasibility studies, process simulations, and economic evaluations for new and existing projects.
• Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Oversee process hazard analyses (PHAs) such as HAZOP studies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior process engineers.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including R&D, operations, and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, regulations, and environmental policies.
• Stay current with advancements in process engineering technologies and methodologies relevant to the South African energy sector.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in process engineering, with a significant focus on chemical manufacturing or the energy industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong knowledge of unit operations, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Demonstrated experience in process design, scale-up, and troubleshooting complex systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Experience with PHA methodologies and safety management systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment.
• Understanding of environmental regulations and sustainable practices.
• Must possess legal working rights in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, complemented by annual performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits scheme.
• top-tier medical aid, life insurance, and a generous provident fund.
• fostering career growth through extensive training programs, professional development opportunities, and support for advanced education.
• The working environment in Durban is dynamic and stimulating, fostering innovation and teamwork.
• You will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and contribute to significant advancements in the chemical processing industry.