Process Industrial Engineer - Petrochemical Focus

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Housing assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Process Industrial Engineer to optimize large-scale chemical processing operations. You will analyze complex processes, design improvements, and drive safety and environmental performance in a demanding petrochemical plant.

The role requires a chemical or industrial engineering degree and 4–6 years in process engineering, with proficiency in Aspen HYSYS or PRO/II, lean manufacturing, SPC, and strong project management and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Industrial Engineering with focus on process industries.
• 4–6 years of process engineering experience in petrochemical/chemical manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Experience with lean manufacturing and SPC.
• Proficiency with process simulation and data analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize chemical processes to reduce costs and improve yield.
• Develop and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and process design for new installations or modifications.
• Model process behavior using simulation software.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure SHE compliance and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and R&D teams to troubleshoot issues.
• Maintain detailed process documentation and SOPs.
• Support capital project execution with process engineering expertise.
• Investigate deviations and implement preventative measures.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Project management

Communication & teamwork

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Industrial Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry situated in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a dedicated Process Industrial Engineer. This role is essential for optimizing the efficiency, safety, and environmental performance of our client's large-scale chemical processing operations. You will be responsible for analyzing complex chemical processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing solutions to enhance yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste. The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, combined with industrial engineering methodologies, to drive operational excellence in the demanding environment of Richards Bay .

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate existing chemical processes to identify opportunities for optimization and cost reduction.
• Develop and implement process improvements to increase production efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and process design for new plant installations or modifications.
• Utilize process simulation software to model and predict process behavior under various conditions.
• Monitor process performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D teams to troubleshoot process issues and implement solutions.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including P&IDs, operating manuals, and SOPs.
• Support capital project execution by providing process engineering expertise.
• Investigate process deviations and implement preventative measures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Industrial Engineering with a strong emphasis on process industries.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in process engineering within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing sector.
• Solid understanding of chemical thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) and data analysis tools.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and statistical process control (SPC).
• Strong knowledge of safety protocols and environmental regulations in the chemical industry.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a plant environment, including occasional exposure to challenging conditions.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, a performance bonus, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a retirement fund, and housing assistance. This role is based in our state-of-the-art facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . The company fosters a culture of safety, innovation, and professional growth, providing ample opportunities for training and career advancement. Employees enjoy access to excellent amenities and a supportive work environment dedicated to achieving operational excellence in the demanding petrochemical sector.