Senior Chemical Process Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Medical aid and retirement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Process Engineer for its client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will optimize and develop chemical processes, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance, while designing and troubleshooting complex production systems.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering with 8+ years of experience in petrochemicals, strong process simulation skills (Aspen Plus, HYSYS), and proven project execution capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering, preferably petrochemicals.
• Expertise in process design, simulation, and optimization.
• Experience with PSM and hazard analysis techniques.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer.
• Leadership and stakeholder communication in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes and equipment for large-scale production.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Perform PHAs and implement safety measures to ensure operational integrity.
• Monitor plant performance, identify improvements, and reduce costs.
• Develop and maintain process documentation including P&IDs and material balances.
• Oversee commissioning and startup of new process units and equipment modifications.
• Provide technical support to plant operations and maintenance teams.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with R&D on scaling up new products from pilot to commercial scale.
• Train junior engineers and technicians on process operations and safety protocols.

Skills

Process design

Process optimization

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking an experienced Senior Chemical Process Engineer to join their vital operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is crucial for optimizing and developing chemical processes, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex chemical production systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, process simulation, and plant operations. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path within a company committed to innovation and sustainability. The Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal location provides a unique opportunity to work within a significant industrial hub. Our client values expertise, dedication, and a forward-thinking approach to process engineering. Join a team that is integral to the success of the chemical manufacturing sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes and equipment for large-scale production.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Perform process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety measures to ensure operational integrity.
• Monitor plant performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and material balances.
• Oversee the commissioning and startup of new process units and equipment modifications.
• Provide technical support and guidance to plant operations and maintenance teams.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with R&D teams on scaling up new products and processes from pilot plant to commercial scale.
• Train junior engineers and technicians on process operations and safety protocols.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in chemical process engineering, preferably within the petrochemical or related industries.
• Proven expertise in process design, simulation, and optimization.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and mass transfer.
• Hands-on experience with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis techniques.
• Familiarity with control systems and instrumentation in a chemical plant environment.
• Experience with project management and capital project execution is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) or equivalent qualification is highly desirable.
• Experience working in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal or similar industrial environments is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Exposure to large-scale, complex chemical processes.
• Company housing or accommodation allowance.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Paid training programs and certifications.
• A stable and secure employment position within a leading industry company.
• Contribute to essential industrial processes in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Contribution towards professional body memberships.