Senior Chemical Process Optimization Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Senior Chemical Process Optimization Engineer to advance efficiency, yield, and sustainability of chemical manufacturing. The role blends hands-on site work with remote data analysis and reporting, using process simulations to test optimization scenarios.

The ideal candidate will have a strong chemical engineering background, extensive experience in process optimization, and leadership abilities to mentor junior engineers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering (Master's preferred).
• 5–7 years of experience in process optimization, design, or operations within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, etc.).
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, kinetics, and mass/heat transfer.
• Experience with data analysis tools and statistical software (Minitab, Python for data science).
• Familiarity with advanced process control (APC) and automation systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in the specialty chemicals sector is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Analyze process data to identify opportunities for improvement in efficiency, yield, and energy consumption.
• Develop and utilize process simulation models (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) to test optimization scenarios.
• Implement and monitor advanced process control (APC) strategies.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects using Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and R&D to implement process changes.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, and operating procedures.
• Evaluate new technologies and methodologies for process optimization.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.
• Mentor junior engineers in process optimization techniques.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Project management

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Python (data science)

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in specialty chemical production, is seeking a Senior Chemical Process Optimization Engineer for their facility in **Polokwane, Limpopo**. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency, yield, and sustainability of existing chemical manufacturing processes. You will utilize advanced analytical techniques, process modeling, and data science to identify bottlenecks, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvement strategies. The ideal candidate will possess a strong chemical engineering background, extensive experience in process simulation and optimization, and a keen analytical mind. This is a hybrid position, offering a blend of on-site work for hands-on analysis and collaboration, with remote flexibility for data analysis and reporting. You will play a key role in driving operational excellence and contributing to the company's competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze process data to identify opportunities for improvement in efficiency, yield, and energy consumption.
• Develop and utilize process simulation models (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) to test optimization scenarios.
• Implement and monitor advanced process control (APC) strategies.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects using methodologies like Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and R&D teams to implement process changes.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, and operating procedures.
• Evaluate new technologies and methodologies for process optimization.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings and recommendations to management.
• Mentor junior engineers in process optimization techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering (Master's preferred).
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in process optimization, design, or operations within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS, etc.).
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, kinetics, and mass/heat transfer.
• Experience with data analysis tools and statistical software (e.g., Minitab, Python for data science).
• Familiarity with advanced process control (APC) and automation systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in the specialty chemicals sector is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off. This **Polokwane**-based role offers a hybrid work model, providing flexibility and promoting work-life balance. Opportunities for professional development and advanced training are available. Join a company committed to innovation and operational excellence in the chemical industry.