Process Design Engineer - Specialty Chemicals

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Annual bonuses

Professional development

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Process Design Engineer in Centurion, Gauteng, to design and optimize chemical processes for high-value specialty chemicals, translating lab innovations to robust industrial scales.

The role requires 5+ years in process design in chemicals, proficiency with Aspen HYSYS/ChemCAD, PFDs/P&IDs, and a strong safety mindset; you'll collaborate across disciplines and support commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in process design in the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation tools and PFD/P&ID development.

Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for specialty chemical plants and plant modifications.
• Create PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specs and material balances.
• Perform process simulations and techno-economic evaluations.
• Conduct HAZOP and other risk assessments.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, civil teams.

Skills

Process design

PFD/P&ID

Process simulation

PSM & HAZOP

Chemical engineering

Team collaboration

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

ChemCad

P&ID software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Process Design Engineer specializing in specialty chemicals to join their team in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA. This is an on-site position that offers the chance to work on the cutting edge of chemical manufacturing, contributing to the design and optimization of processes for high-value chemical products. You will be responsible for translating laboratory-scale innovations into robust, scalable, and safe industrial processes. This role demands a meticulous approach to design, a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, and the ability to work collaboratively within a project team. The successful candidate will be integral to ensuring our client maintains its position as a leader in the specialty chemicals market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for new specialty chemical manufacturing plants and modifications to existing facilities.
• Create Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), equipment specifications, and material balances.
• Conduct process simulations and techno-economic evaluations to assess feasibility and optimize designs.
• Perform hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies and other risk assessments.
• Select appropriate process equipment and technologies based on project requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, civil) and operations teams.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, operating manuals, and commissioning procedures.
• Support plant commissioning and startup activities, troubleshooting issues as they arise.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in process design and engineering within the chemical industry, preferably in specialty chemicals.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD).
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering.
• Experience with P&ID development and P&ID software.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.

Benefits

This role comes with a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. Our client provides excellent medical insurance, a retirement savings plan, and opportunities for annual bonuses based on performance. You will have access to ongoing professional development and training programs designed to enhance your skills and career progression. The work environment is dynamic and collaborative, fostering innovation and teamwork. Paid annual leave and sick leave are provided as per company policy. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled Process Design Engineer to contribute significantly to a growing and innovative company in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA area.