Process Design Engineer - Petrochemical

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly motivated Process Design Engineer to join our client’s Richards Bay operations in KwaZulu-Natal. You will design, optimize and troubleshoot chemical processes in state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring safety, environmental compliance and efficiency.

The role requires a chemical engineering degree and extensive experience with process simulation tools such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS. Collaboration across disciplines and a strong track record in petrochemicals are essential;

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's or Master's).
• 8+ years of experience in process design with petrochemical focus.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, reaction engineering, and separation processes.
• Familiarity with safety and environmental regulations in chemicals.

Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual and detailed process designs for petrochemical plants.
• Use process simulation software for design, analysis and optimization.
• Prepare PFDs and P&IDs.
• Perform mass and energy balances for process units.
• Conduct PHAs and HAZOP studies for safety.
• Specify process equipment including reactors, columns, heat exchangers, pumps.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, civil and operations teams.
• Stay updated on new process engineering technologies.

Skills

Process design

Process simulation

Mass & energy balance

PHAs/HAZOP

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Analytical problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

PrEng registration (advantage)

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

PFD

P&ID

Thermodynamics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Process Design Engineer to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of chemical processes within their state-of-the-art facilities. You will be responsible for designing new process units, modifying existing ones, and ensuring that all operations meet stringent safety, environmental, and efficiency standards. The ideal candidate will have a robust understanding of chemical engineering principles, process simulation software, and a proven track record in the petrochemical or related sector. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path with opportunities for significant professional growth and contribution to a vital industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual and detailed process designs for petrochemical plants and units.
• Utilize process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) for design, analysis, and optimization.
• Prepare Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations for various process units.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and HAZOP studies to ensure safety.
• Specify process equipment, including reactors, columns, heat exchangers, and pumps.
• Troubleshoot process issues and recommend solutions to improve efficiency and yield.
• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, civil) and operations teams.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and best practices in process engineering.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process design engineering, with a significant focus on the petrochemical sector.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, etc.).
• Thorough understanding of chemical thermodynamics, reaction engineering, and separation processes.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and environmental compliance in the chemical industry.
• Experience with PFD and P&ID development.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Professional Engineer (PrEng) registration is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and opportunities for international training and career advancement. Employees benefit from working with advanced technologies in a safety-conscious environment and contribute to a critical sector of the economy. The hybrid model allows for a balance between site-based collaboration and remote work flexibility. Join a leading organization in Richards Bay that values expertise and offers a stable, long-term career.