Senior Process Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Division

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Subsidized canteen

Parking

Vibrant work culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join our Midrand-based team. You will oversee and optimize chemical processes, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance while contributing to design, development, and implementation of manufacturing systems.

The role requires a strong analytical mindset, leadership, and a track record in process improvement within an industrial setting. You will mentor junior engineers and collaborate across functions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering (or related field).
• Master's degree is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes and equipment to enhance efficiency and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and process simulations to evaluate new technologies and modifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in chemical plants, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance to implement process improvements.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for process initiatives.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations for management.

Skills

Process optimization

Leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the chemical processing industry, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team based in Midrand, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves overseeing and optimizing complex chemical processes, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. You will be instrumental in the design, development, and implementation of new and existing chemical manufacturing systems. The ideal candidate possesses a strong analytical mindset, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a proven track record in process improvement within a challenging industrial setting. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking company and make a significant impact on its operational success. We are looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and is eager to mentor junior engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes and equipment to enhance efficiency and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and process simulations to evaluate new technologies and modifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in chemical plants, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, and maintenance, to implement process improvements.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for process engineering initiatives.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering, preferably within the petrochemical or specialty chemicals sector.
• In-depth knowledge of process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Proven experience in process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis (HAZOP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse teams.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience in project management.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
• Registered professional engineer with ECSA is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus scheme, comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Employees also benefit from a subsidized canteen, ample parking, and a vibrant work culture that promotes innovation and teamwork.
• This role offers significant career progression opportunities within a globally recognized organization.
• We value work-life balance and provide support for continuous learning.