Process Design Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Randfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance incentives

Medical insurance

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Process Design Engineer for its Rustenburg, North West operations. You will conceptualize and develop robust chemical processes for extraction and refinement in a major petrochemical hub. Lead PFDs/P&IDs, run simulations, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The role requires a strong analytical mindset, hands-on design work, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Relocation assistance may be provided for suitable candidates.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years in process design in petrochemical/oil & gas industries.
• Proficiency in Aspen HYSYS or PRO/II.
• Strong knowledge of unit operations in petrochemical processing (distillation, cracking, reforming).
• Familiarity with safety standards and risk assessment techniques (HAZOP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Experience with PFD and P&ID development.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Understanding of project lifecycle from concept to execution.

Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for new petrochemical plants and modifications.
• Create and review PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications.
• Perform process simulations and calculations to optimize unit operations and plant performance.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for proposed projects.
• Ensure designs comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, civil).
• Provide technical support during construction, commissioning and startup phases.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and propose design modifications to improve efficiency.
• Stay updated with advancements in petrochemical process technology.
• Prepare technical documentation and present design concepts to stakeholders.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a skilled Process Design Engineer to join their operations in Rustenburg, North West . This role is critical for conceptualizing and developing robust chemical processes for the extraction and refinement of key petrochemical products. The successful candidate will be instrumental in translating project requirements into detailed engineering designs, ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards. We are looking for an individual with a strong analytical mind and a deep understanding of petrochemical processes. This is an exceptional chance to contribute to a major industrial hub in North West , working with advanced technologies and contributing to significant projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for new petrochemical plants and modifications to existing facilities.
• Create and review Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Perform process simulations and calculations to optimize unit operations and plant performance.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for proposed projects.
• Ensure designs comply with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, including mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers.
• Provide technical support during the construction, commissioning, and startup phases of projects.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and recommend design modifications to improve efficiency and reliability.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in petrochemical process technology.
• Prepare technical documentation and present design concepts to stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process design, preferably within the petrochemical or oil and gas industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen HYSYS or PRO/II.
• Strong knowledge of unit operations common in petrochemical processing (e.g., distillation, cracking, reforming).
• Familiarity with safety standards and risk assessment techniques (e.g., HAZOP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Experience with PFD and P&ID development is essential.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Understanding of project lifecycle from conceptualization to execution.
• Must possess valid work authorization for South Africa .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance incentives, comprehensive medical insurance, and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are abundant, with access to specialized training and industry conferences.
• This role is based in Rustenburg , a key industrial city in the North West province, offering a dynamic work environment.
• We also provide assistance with relocation expenses for eligible candidates.
• Join a company that is at the forefront of the petrochemical industry and advance your career.