Senior Process Chemical Engineer - Remote Focus

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Online professional development

Retirement savings plan

Flexible working hours

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Process Chemical Engineer for a fully remote, permanent role. You will design, optimize, and scale chemical processes, using simulation tools to drive efficiency, safety, and sustainability across global operations.

As part of a virtual team, you will manage projects from home, mentor junior engineers, and develop advanced control strategies. A strong background in Aspen Plus or HYSYS, CAD tools, and knowledge of PSM is required for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in process engineering within chemical or petrochemical industries.
• Strong proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools; knowledge of PSM and risk assessment.

Responsibilities

• Design, optimize chemical processes for efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
• Conduct rigorous process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational issues in real-time, providing effective solutions.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and engineering teams to scale up new processes from lab to commercial production.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive process documentation, including P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and operating procedures.
• Ensure all processes comply with stringent safety regulations and environmental standards.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively for remote execution.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for innovation.
• Mentor junior engineers and share technical expertise within the virtual team.
• Contribute to the development of advanced control strategies and automation solutions.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Excellent communication

Independent remote work

Sustainability mindset

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Process Chemical Engineer to join their dynamic virtual team. This is a fully remote, permanent position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects from the comfort of your home office. You will play a pivotal role in optimizing existing processes, developing innovative solutions for new product lines, and driving efficiency improvements across our client's diverse manufacturing operations. This role demands a proactive individual who thrives in an autonomous, collaborative online environment and possesses a strong analytical mindset. We are looking for a candidate who can effectively communicate complex technical information to cross-functional teams, manage projects remotely, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and safety. The successful candidate will have the autonomy to manage their workload and contribute strategically to the company's success, irrespective of their physical location. This is an exciting chance to leverage your expertise in a remote-first setting within the vibrant Johannesburg area, though physical presence in the city is not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
• Conduct rigorous process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational issues in real-time, providing effective solutions.
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and engineering teams to scale up new processes from lab to commercial production.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive process documentation, including P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and operating procedures.
• Ensure all processes comply with stringent safety regulations and environmental standards.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively for remote execution.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for innovation.
• Mentor junior engineers and share technical expertise within the virtual team.
• Contribute to the development of advanced control strategies and automation solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• Proven track record of successfully designing, implementing, and optimizing complex chemical processes.
• Strong proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and CAD tools.
• In-depth understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and risk assessment techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a virtual setting.
• Demonstrated experience in managing projects and working independently in a remote environment.
• Familiarity with industry best practices for sustainability and environmental compliance.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa, although the role is remote.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning through online courses and virtual conferences.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Access to cutting-edge virtual collaboration tools and technology.
• Flexible working hours to promote work-life balance.
• Contribution to a forward-thinking company driving innovation in the chemical sector.