Remote Lead Chemical Engineer - Global Process Design

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work from SA

Performance bonus

Health and wellness programs

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer for a remote-first role based in South Africa. Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of complex chemical processes for international projects from your home office, coordinating with global teams.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering with 10+ years in process design, advanced simulation skills (Aspen Plus, HYSYS), and strong leadership for remote international projects.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Chemical Engineering from a top university.
• 10+ years in chemical process design with senior leadership experience.
• Experience leading large-scale international projects.
• Proficient in Aspen Plus, HYSYS, and CAD tools.
• Knowledge of ASME/API codes and PHA methodologies.
• Excellent leadership and remote collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design and FEED packages for global projects.
• Perform complex process simulations and modeling for efficiency and safety.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for intricate systems.
• Provide technical leadership to a remote team of engineers.
• Collaborate with international project managers and engineers.
• Ensure designs meet international safety, environmental, and codes.
• Identify new technologies and process intensification opportunities.
• Prepare technical reports, design docs, and cost estimates.
• Manage technical risks and mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate virtual PHAs and risk assessments.

Skills

Leadership

Process design

Process simulation

PFD & P&ID

Remote leadership

Safety standards

Mentoring

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CAD tools

Process safety software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials and chemical solutions, is looking for a highly skilled and motivated Lead Chemical Engineer to join their innovative, remote-first team. This position is based remotely, allowing you to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will be responsible for leading the conceptualization, design, and implementation of complex chemical processes for international projects. This role requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in process design, simulation, and project management, capable of driving innovation and ensuring the highest engineering standards across diverse applications. As a remote Lead Chemical Engineer, you will spearhead complex projects, collaborate with global teams, and contribute to the development of next-generation chemical technologies from the convenience of your home office, supporting our operations worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of conceptual and FEED (Front-End Engineering Design) packages for major chemical process projects globally.
• Oversee and perform complex process simulations and modeling to optimize designs for efficiency, safety, and economic viability.
• Develop and review Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) for intricate chemical systems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical engineers working remotely.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional international teams, including project managers, mechanical engineers, and operations specialists.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant international safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and process intensification strategies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, design documentation, and cost estimates for global projects.
• Manage technical risks and implement mitigation strategies throughout the design phase.
• Facilitate and participate in virtual Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and other risk assessment activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from a top-tier university.
• Over 10 years of comprehensive experience in chemical process design, with a significant portion in lead or senior roles.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading large-scale international chemical process design projects.
• Advanced proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong knowledge of process safety principles, PHA methodologies, and international codes and standards (e.g., ASME, API).
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, vital for a remote and international context.
• Proven ability to mentor and develop engineering talent.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a strategic mindset.
• Experience working effectively in a remote team environment.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent international certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, flexible working hours, and the unparalleled benefit of working entirely remotely from South Africa.
• Additional perks include a generous performance bonus structure, comprehensive health and wellness programs, and a significant budget for professional development and continued learning.
• You'll have access to state-of-the-art digital collaboration tools and the opportunity to lead projects that have a global impact, all while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Join a pioneering remote team shaping the future of chemical engineering.