Remote Chemical Engineer - Process Automation & Control

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

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Chemical Engineer specializing in process automation to design and optimize advanced control systems for complex chemical processes on a fully remote team.

You will implement DCS/PLC projects, develop control architectures, and ensure cybersecure automation while collaborating with an international client base. A strong background in APC, process dynamics, and simulation is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Electrical/Mechatronics Engineering with a strong chemical process focus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process automation, control engineering, and DCS/PLC programming.
• Proven expertise in advanced process control (APC) techniques.
• Strong understanding of chemical process principles, dynamics, and unit operations.
• Experience with major DCS/PLC platforms (Siemens, Rockwell, Emerson DeltaV).
• Experience with simulation software (MATLAB/Simulink, Aspen Plus Dynamics).
• Excellent analytical and communication skills, with ability to work remotely in cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop APC strategies, including model predictive control (MPC).
• Implement and commission DCS and PLC systems.
• Configure and optimize process instrumentation and control loops.
• Develop P&IDs, control narratives, and system architecture documentation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to process control systems and automation hardware/software.
• Collaborate with plant engineers, operations, and IT to integrate automation solutions.
• Conduct process modeling and simulation to test control strategies.
• Ensure cybersecurity best practices for industrial control systems.

Skills

Process automation

DCS/PLC programming

APC techniques

Python scripting

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in ChemicalEngineering or Electrical/Mechatronics

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Aspen Plus Dynamics

Siemens

Rockwell

Emerson DeltaV

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer with expertise in Process Automation and Control to join their fully remote team. This role is dedicated to designing, implementing, and optimizing automated control systems for complex chemical processes across various industries. You will play a key role in enhancing operational efficiency, improving product quality, ensuring safety, and driving innovation through advanced control strategies. This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced engineer to leverage their expertise in a remote capacity, contributing to state-of-the-art automation projects for a diverse international client base. The position requires a deep understanding of control theory, process dynamics, and modern automation technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced process control (APC) strategies, including model predictive control (MPC).
• Implement and commission Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
• Configure and optimize process instrumentation and control loops.
• Develop P&IDs, control narratives, and system architecture documentation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to process control systems and automation hardware/software.
• Collaborate with plant engineers, operations teams, and IT professionals to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
• Conduct process modeling and simulation to test and refine control strategies.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards for automation and cybersecurity.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and internal teams on automation systems.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technologies, IIoT, and data analytics for process optimization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Electrical/Mechatronics Engineering with a strong chemical process focus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process automation, control engineering, and DCS/PLC programming, preferably within chemical or manufacturing industries.
• Proven expertise in advanced process control (APC) techniques.
• Strong understanding of chemical process principles, dynamics, and unit operations.
• Proficiency with major DCS/PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Emerson DeltaV).
• Experience with simulation software (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, Aspen Plus Dynamics).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote, cross-functional team environment.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity best practices for industrial control systems.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python) for data analysis and automation is a plus.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities. Enjoy the flexibility of working from your preferred location while contributing to innovative automation projects that enhance global manufacturing efficiency and safety. Our client is committed to technological excellence and provides a supportive environment for career growth. This role is perfect for a skilled Chemical Engineer specializing in automation, seeking a challenging and flexible remote career.