About the Role
Our client, a leading innovator in the chemical industry, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic team in East London, Eastern Cape. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge projects, driving process optimization and ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable production of petrochemical products. You will be instrumental in translating complex chemical processes into tangible, large-scale industrial applications. This position requires a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, coupled with practical experience in process design, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a passion for innovation. This is an exciting chance to advance your career in a challenging yet rewarding setting, contributing directly to the success of a prominent player in the Eastern Cape industrial landscape.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, design, and optimize chemical processes for the production of petrochemicals, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance.
- Conduct feasibility studies and technical assessments for new process technologies and modifications to existing ones.
- Prepare process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
- Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and improve yield.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, maintenance, and safety departments, to ensure seamless project execution and operational excellence.
- Oversee pilot plant trials and scale-up activities, ensuring successful transition to full-scale production.
- Perform process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Ensure adherence to all relevant safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies.
- Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of learning and development.
- Prepare detailed technical reports, cost estimates, and project proposals.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
- Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry.
- Proven expertise in process design, simulation (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS), and troubleshooting.
- Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mass transfer.
- Experience with process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Familiarity with industry best practices and regulatory requirements in East London, Eastern Cape.
- Membership in a relevant professional engineering body is desirable.
Benefits
- Competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick days.
- Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.
- Contribution to retirement savings plan.
- Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment within the vibrant industrial hub of East London.