Process Engineer - Petrochemical Sector

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Process Engineer for an on-site role in East London. You will optimize and troubleshoot complex chemical processes, design PFDs/P&IDs, and lead simulations to evaluate operating scenarios.

The ideal candidate has a chemical engineering degree with 7+ years in petrochem or chemical manufacturing, strong PSM/HAZOP knowledge, and excellent analytical and communication skills. On-site full-time position in the Eastern Cape region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience as a Process Engineer, preferably within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience with P&ID development and interpretation.
• Knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing chemical processes to improve yield, efficiency, and safety.
• Design and develop new process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to evaluate different operational scenarios.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement effective corrective actions.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure smooth plant functioning.
• Oversee the implementation of process improvements and new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and project proposals.
• Support the commissioning and startup of new equipment and process units.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies in petrochemical processing.

Skills

Process engineering

PFD/P&ID design

Process simulation

PSM & HAZOP

Technical writing

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking an experienced Process Engineer for their facility in East London . This role is critical for optimizing and troubleshooting complex chemical processes, ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant operations. You will be involved in process design, simulation, implementation of new technologies, and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation in chemical engineering principles coupled with practical experience in a demanding industrial environment. This is a vital on-site position requiring full-time dedication to maintaining and enhancing our operational performance in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing chemical processes to improve yield, efficiency, and safety.
• Design and develop new process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to evaluate different operational scenarios.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement effective corrective actions.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure smooth plant functioning.
• Oversee the implementation of process improvements and new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and project proposals.
• Support the commissioning and startup of new equipment and process units.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies in petrochemical processing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience as a Process Engineer, preferably within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience with P&ID development and interpretation.
• Knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong technical writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a plant environment.
• Must be committed to a full-time, on-site role in East London .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits. Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and potential for international assignments. Work with cutting-edge technology in a dynamic and challenging petrochemical environment. Be part of a company committed to safety, sustainability, and operational excellence in the Eastern Cape . Excellent career progression prospects within a leading industry player.