Senior Process Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Specialization

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Chemical Engineer for our client in Cape Town, Western Cape. You will design, optimize, and troubleshoot complex chemical processes, ensuring safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance in a hybrid on-site/remote setup.

The role requires a chemical engineering degree and at least 7 years in process design and operations, use of Aspen Plus or HYSYS, and strong project management and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in chemical process design and operations, preferably in petrochemicals.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and thermodynamic principles.
• Proven project management experience including scope definition, planning, and execution.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop innovative chemical processes, ensuring safety and environmental compliance.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new designs and modifications.
• Optimize existing plant operations to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Prepare detailed process design documents including P&IDs, mass and energy balances, equipment specs.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance to achieve project goals.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance for professional development.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices to drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Process design

Optimization

Troubleshooting

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the petrochemical industry, is seeking an exceptional Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA. This is a pivotal role where you will contribute to the design, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex chemical processes. You will be instrumental in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our client's operations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, a proven track record in project execution, and a passion for driving innovation in a challenging environment. This hybrid role offers a unique blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing you to contribute effectively while maintaining a balanced work-life integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop innovative chemical processes, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new process designs and modifications.
• Optimize existing plant operations to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance safety performance.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Prepare detailed process design documents, including P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, and maintenance, to achieve project goals.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to support their professional development.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and industry best practices to drive continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in chemical process design and operations, preferably within the petrochemical sector.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and thermodynamic principles.
• Demonstrated experience in project management, including scope definition, planning, and execution.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation to drive process improvements.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
• Membership in a recognized professional engineering body is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in both on-site and remote settings as per the hybrid model.

Benefits

Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being and professional growth. This includes competitive remuneration, performance-based bonuses, medical aid, a generous provident fund, and opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement. You will be part of a supportive and forward-thinking organization committed to excellence and innovation within the Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA region. Join us and make a significant impact in the chemical engineering field.