Senior Chemical Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Career progression

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer specialized in petrochemicals for our Durban facility. You will analyze, design, and optimize complex processes to enhance yield, energy efficiency, and safety, while driving innovative solutions and regulatory compliance.

You will lead PHAs and risk assessments, collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D, and prepare PFDs and P&IDs. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years in petrochemical industry.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus or HYSYS and data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of process safety and environmental compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design and optimization of petrochemical processes for yield and energy efficiency.
• Conduct PHAs, risk assessments, and implement safety protocols.
• Troubleshoot operations, perform root cause analysis, implement sustainable fixes.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D to improve performance.
• Prepare PFDs, P&IDs, and technical reports.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, environmental and safety policies.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a dedicated Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in petrochemicals to join their advanced manufacturing facility in Durban . This role is critical for ensuring the efficiency, safety, and profitability of our petrochemical operations. You will be responsible for analyzing, designing, and optimizing complex chemical processes, driving innovation, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to operational excellence in a challenging industrial setting. You will contribute to key projects and continuous improvement efforts within the vibrant industrial hub of Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, development, and optimization of petrochemical processes, focusing on yield improvement and energy efficiency.
• Conduct detailed process hazard analyses (PHAs), risk assessments, and implement necessary safety protocols.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement sustainable solutions.
• Collaborate with plant operations, maintenance, and R&D teams to enhance process performance.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, process flow diagrams (PFDs), and P&IDs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, environmental regulations, and safety policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in the petrochemical industry.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of refinery operations, process safety, and environmental compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented, fast‑paced industrial environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with annual bonuses and incentives.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and career progression.
• Hybrid work arrangement to balance professional and personal life.
• Be part of a leading organization with a strong commitment to safety and sustainability in Durban.