Senior Chemical Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remuneration package

Bonuses

Medical aid & provident fund

International training & conferences

Leave & development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for our client in George, Western Cape. The role demands strategic leadership to drive complex projects, optimize plant operations, and ensure safety and environmental compliance across the petrochemical plant.

Ideal candidates will have 7+ years in chemical engineering within petrochemicals, strong process design and Aspen Plus experience, plus proven leadership and project management capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in chemical engineering, petrochemical focus.
• Experience in process design, simulation (Aspen Plus), and troubleshooting.
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with process safety principles and HAZOP studies.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes in petrochemicals.
• Oversee process safety management and regulatory compliance.
• Conduct feasibility studies, risk assessments, and economic evaluations.
• Mentor junior engineers and technical staff.
• Optimize plant operations for efficiency and environmental impact.
• Manage capital projects from conception to completion within budget.
• Engage with regulators and stakeholders to ensure compliance.
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer with extensive experience to join their operations in George, Western Cape. This role demands a strategic thinker capable of leading complex projects, optimizing existing plant operations, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in driving innovation and efficiency within the plant, contributing to the company's sustained growth and market leadership. This is a demanding yet rewarding position for a seasoned professional looking to expand their influence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of new chemical processes and the modification of existing ones within the petrochemical sector.
• Oversee process safety management (PSM) protocols and ensure adherence to stringent safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct feasibility studies, risk assessments, and economic evaluations for proposed projects.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Optimize plant operations for maximum efficiency, yield, and minimal environmental impact.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and develop effective, long-term solutions.
• Manage capital projects from conception through to completion, ensuring they are on time and within budget.
• Engage with regulatory bodies and stakeholders to ensure compliance.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies in petrochemical engineering.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• At least 7 years of progressive experience in chemical engineering, with a strong focus on the petrochemical industry.
• Demonstrated experience in process design, simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus), and troubleshooting in a plant environment.
• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical processes, catalysts, and separation technologies.
• Proven leadership and project management capabilities.
• Strong understanding of process safety principles and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Familiarity with the operational landscape in George, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Attractive remuneration package.
• Generous performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund contributions.
• Opportunities for international training and conferences.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Ample paid leave.
• Professional development support.