Process Design Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Provident fund

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Design Engineer in Bloemfontein, Free State, to lead the design of new petrochemical process units and modify existing facilities. You will work across the design lifecycle—from feasibility studies to detailed engineering and commissioning support—in a hybrid setup with site engagement.

The ideal candidate has a chemical engineering degree and 5-8 years in process design, with strong simulation skills and knowledge of API/ASME codes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
• 5-8 years of experience in petrochemical process design.
• Proficiency in process simulation and thermodynamic modeling.
• Knowledge of API/ASME codes and standards.
• Experience with PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specs.

Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for new petrochemical plants and modifications to existing facilities.
• Perform process simulations using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Prepare PFDs, P&IDs, and mass and energy balances.
• Conduct feasibility studies and conceptual design reports for new projects.
• Specify process equipment including reactors, columns, pumps, and heat exchangers.
• Participate in HAZOP and other safety review meetings during the design phase.
• Provide technical support to procurement, construction, and commissioning teams.
• Ensure designs comply with industry codes, standards, and regulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams and stakeholders.
• Review vendor documentation and ensure adherence to design specifications.

Skills

Process design

Process simulation

Thermodynamic modeling

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

3D modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a skilled Process Design Engineer to join their engineering team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role is crucial for the conceptualization and detailed design of new process units and modifications to existing facilities. You will be involved in all phases of the design lifecycle, from feasibility studies and conceptual design to detailed engineering and commissioning support. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, providing flexibility while ensuring essential collaboration and site engagement. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of petrochemical processes, simulation tools, and engineering best practices. We are looking for an individual who can translate project requirements into robust and efficient engineering designs, ensuring safety, operability, and profitability. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to major projects within a well-established organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for new petrochemical plants and modifications to existing facilities.
• Perform process simulations using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Prepare Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and mass and energy balances.
• Conduct feasibility studies and conceptual design reports for new projects.
• Specify process equipment, including reactors, columns, pumps, and heat exchangers.
• Participate in HAZOP and other safety review meetings during the design phase.
• Provide technical support to the procurement, construction, and commissioning teams.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant industry codes, standards, and regulations.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering teams and stakeholders.
• Review vendor documentation and ensure adherence to design specifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
• 5-8 years of experience in process design engineering, specifically within the petrochemical sector.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and thermodynamic modeling.
• Strong understanding of petrochemical unit operations and process technologies.
• Experience in developing PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications.
• Knowledge of industry codes and standards (e.g., API, ASME).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid team environment.
• Familiarity with process safety principles.
• Experience with 3D modeling software is a plus.

Benefits

This hybrid Process Design Engineer role offers a competitive salary package, complemented by a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, life insurance, and a provident fund. Employees receive ample annual leave and opportunities for continuous professional development through training courses and industry conferences. Our client is committed to employee growth and provides a challenging yet supportive work environment. The hybrid model in Bloemfontein, Free State, allows for a dynamic work experience, balancing focused individual work with collaborative team sessions. Join a respected company known for its technical expertise and commitment to innovation in the petrochemical field.