Remote Lead Chemical Engineer — Petrochem & Sustainability

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Home office setup allowance

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Remote Lead Chemical Engineer to drive development and optimization of complex petrochemical processes from anywhere in South Africa. You will provide technical leadership, mentorship, and strategic direction to global teams, ensuring successful project execution and knowledge sharing.

Ideal candidates have 10+ years in chemical process engineering, expertise in process simulation (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), CFD, and strong grasp of kinetics, thermodynamics,

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive chemical process engineering experience with a focus on petrochemicals.
• Proven track record leading remote or distributed project teams.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), CFD, and data analytics.
• In-depth knowledge of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, separation processes, and safety engineering (LOPA, SIL).
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills for remote collaboration.
• Experience with global regulatory frameworks and environmental best practices.
• Ability to manage budgets and project schedules; home office setup with reliable internet is essential.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and implementation of large-scale petrochemical processes.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to project teams remotely.
• Oversee process simulation, modeling, and optimization using advanced software tools.
• Conduct rigorous safety and environmental impact assessments for new and existing processes.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively from a distance.
• Collaborate with international R&D, operations, and commercial teams via virtual channels.
• Develop and refine SOPs and best practices for remote engineering execution.
• Present technical findings and project updates to senior management and stakeholders.
• Drive innovation and the adoption of sustainable engineering practices.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant global and local regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

CFD

Job description

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Remote Lead Chemical Engineer to drive development and optimization of complex petrochemical processes from anywhere in South Africa. You will provide technical leadership, mentorship, and strategic direction to global teams, ensuring successful project execution and knowledge sharing.

Ideal candidates have 10+ years in chemical process engineering, expertise in process simulation (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), CFD, and strong grasp of kinetics, thermodynamics,