Senior Process Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Expansion

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonuses based on performance

Health and medical benefits

Relocation assistance may be available

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a highly skilled Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join our client in Midrand, Gauteng. You will lead design, optimization, and safety for major petrochemical expansion projects, driving innovation and operational excellence.

The role blends on-site collaboration with remote work flexibility, requiring strong project management, PFD/P&ID experience, and PSM leadership. Registration as a Professional Engineer with ECSA is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering, preferably petrochemical.
• Strong knowledge of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Experience with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (ECSA) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of chemical processes for new and existing facilities.
• Conduct feasibility studies, process simulations, and economic evaluations for proposed projects.
• Develop P&IDs, PFDs, and equipment specifications.
• Oversee Process Safety Management (PSM) activities, including HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Troubleshoot process issues to maintain operational efficiency.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to management.
• Manage project timelines and budgets for process engineering.

Skills

Process design

PSM leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the chemical manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng. This is a critical role that will involve contributing to major petrochemical expansion projects, ensuring optimal process design, efficiency, and safety. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles and a proven track record in project execution within a complex industrial environment. This hybrid role offers a balanced approach to work, combining essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work, fostering a productive and engaging work environment. You will be instrumental in driving innovation and sustainability within our client's operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of chemical processes for new and existing facilities.
• Conduct feasibility studies, process simulations, and economic evaluations for proposed projects.
• Develop P&IDs, PFDs, and equipment specifications.
• Oversee process safety management (PSM) activities, including HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Provide technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, operations, and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex process issues to maintain operational efficiency.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to management.
• Manage project timelines and budgets for process engineering aspects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering, preferably within the petrochemical or related industries.
• Strong knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proven project management experience.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Must be eligible to work in Midrand, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and medical aid benefits.
• Generous paid time off and leave days.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Contribution to pension fund.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technology and large-scale projects.
• Supportive and collaborative work culture.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.