Process Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance incentives

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking a Process Engineer to optimize and maintain efficiency, safety, and profitability of production processes in the petrochemical sector. The role collaborates with operations, maintenance and project teams to integrate processes and drive continuous improvement.

You will hold a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering with at least three years' related experience, using process simulation tools such as Aspen HYSYS or PRO/II, and you will work

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in process engineering in petrochemical/chemical manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of chemical process principles, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) is a plus.
• Proficiency in PFDs and P&IDs development and interpretation.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations in the chemical industry.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize chemical processes to improve yield, efficiency, and safety.
• Develop process designs and specifications for new projects and modifications.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify issues.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare technical reports, PFDs, and P&IDs.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams for smooth plant operation.
• Participate in HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Support implementation of new technologies and process upgrades.
• Provide technical support and training to operational staff.

Skills

Chemical process principles

Thermodynamics

Fluid mechanics

Process simulation software

PFDs and P&IDs

Safety & environmental compliance

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the petrochemical sector, is seeking a motivated and skilled Process Engineer to join their operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role is integral to optimizing and maintaining the efficiency, safety, and profitability of our client's production processes. The Process Engineer will be responsible for analyzing existing operations, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing solutions to enhance process performance. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with advanced technologies and contribute to the development of cutting‑edge chemical processes in a vital industry. You will collaborate closely with operations, maintenance, and project teams to ensure seamless process integration and continuous improvement. The position requires a strong technical background and a proactive approach to problem‑solving within a dynamic industrial setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing chemical processes to improve yield, efficiency, and safety.
• Develop process designs and specifications for new projects and modifications.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify potential issues.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare technical reports, process flow diagrams (PFDs), and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Ensure all processes comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure smooth plant operation and effective troubleshooting.
• Participate in HAZOP studies and other risk assessment activities.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and process upgrades.
• Provide technical support and training to operational staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in process engineering, preferably within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of chemical process principles, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) is a plus.
• Proficiency in PFDs and P&IDs development and interpretation.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and environmental compliance in the chemical industry.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Willingness to work in a hybrid model, balancing on‑site and remote duties as required.
• Familiarity with process control systems is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, pension fund, performance incentives, and significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement. The role is based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , with a flexible hybrid work arrangement. Our client is dedicated to fostering a safe and innovative work environment.