Remote Lead Chemical Engineer - Petrochemicals

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

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced materials and sustainable chemical solutions, is looking for a highly accomplished Remote Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead innovative projects from anywhere within South Africa. This role is crucial for driving the development and optimization of complex petrochemical processes. As a fully remote position, you will leverage cutting-edge technology and collaborative platforms to engage with teams worldwide, ensuring seamless project execution and knowledge sharing. We seek a forward-thinking individual who can provide technical leadership, mentorship, and strategic direction, contributing significantly to our client's commitment to environmental stewardship and technological excellence. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a substantial impact in the chemical engineering field without geographical constraints.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of large-scale petrochemical processes. Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to project teams and junior engineers 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 closely with international R&D, operations, and commercial teams via virtual channels. Develop and refine standard operating procedures 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.

Requirements

Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline. A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering, with a strong focus on petrochemicals. Demonstrated success in leading complex engineering projects, preferably in a remote or distributed team setting. Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), CFD, and advanced data analytics. In-depth knowledge of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, separation processes, and safety engineering (e.g., LOPA, SIL). Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, adapted for remote collaboration. Experience with global regulatory frameworks and environmental best practices. Proven ability to manage budgets and project schedules effectively. A dedicated home office setup with reliable high-speed internet access is essential for this role. Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits suite covering medical aid, retirement planning, and life insurance. Our client provides substantial allowances for home office setup and ongoing professional development, including access to online courses, conferences, and advanced training programs. You will experience unparalleled flexibility in your work environment, combined with opportunities for significant career advancement within a globally recognized organization. Join us and shape the future of sustainable chemical engineering from the comfort of your home.