Senior Chemical Process Optimization Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and retirement benefits

Annual performance bonuses

International collaboration and growth

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Process Optimization Engineer to join the Pietermaritzburg team. The role focuses on enhancing efficiency, yield, and sustainability of existing chemical processes using advanced analytics, simulation tools, and data science.

You will identify bottlenecks, reduce waste, and drive operational excellence across our manufacturing sites while mentoring junior engineers and ensuring safety and quality standards are met.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering required.
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering with optimization focus.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus/ChemCAD).
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and data mining techniques.
• Experience with APC and process control strategies desired.
• Strong thermodynamics, kinetics and separation knowledge.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and project management skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead process optimization initiatives across chemical production lines.
• Use data analytics, statistical modeling and simulations to identify improvements.
• Develop strategies to increase yields, reduce energy use, and minimize waste.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement robust solutions.
• Collaborate with engineers/operators to implement optimized procedures.
• Conduct feasibility studies for upgrades and new technologies.
• Mentor junior engineers and share best practices.
• Ensure projects meet safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analytics

Statistical modeling

Project management

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial chemicals, is looking for an experienced Senior Chemical Process Optimization Engineer to join their dedicated team. This role, based in **Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal**, focuses on enhancing the efficiency, yield, and sustainability of existing chemical manufacturing processes. You will leverage advanced analytical techniques, simulation tools, and data science to identify bottlenecks, reduce waste, and improve overall plant performance. This is a key position for driving operational excellence within our **Pietermaritzburg** operations. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a proven ability to implement impactful process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead initiatives for process optimization across various chemical production lines.
• Utilize advanced data analytics, statistical modeling, and simulation tools to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase process yields, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and implement robust solutions.
• Collaborate with plant engineers and operators to implement optimized operating procedures.
• Conduct feasibility studies for process upgrades and technology adoption.
• Mentor junior engineers and share best practices in process optimization.
• Ensure all optimization projects align with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on optimization and troubleshooting.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, ChemCAD).
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and data mining techniques.
• Experience with process control strategies and advanced process control (APC).
• Strong understanding of chemical thermodynamics, kinetics, and separation processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, annual performance bonuses, opportunities for international collaboration and professional development, and a dynamic work environment in **Pietermaritzburg**. Contribute to sustainable and efficient chemical manufacturing with our team.