Senior Process Control Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan with employer match

Generous paid time off

Remote-friendly environment

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Control Engineer for a remote-first role in the chemical industry. The candidate will design, implement, and optimize advanced control strategies, including MPC, across DCS/PLC platforms and SIS safety systems. Strong collaboration with process and operations teams is essential.

The role emphasizes remote delivery of high-impact solutions, system tuning, and comprehensive documentation to enhance plant efficiency and product quality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Electrical Engineering.
• 6+ years in process control, preferably chemical/petrochemical.
• Experience with DCS/PLC platforms and SIS standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize APC strategies (MPC).
• Configure, program, and troubleshoot DCS/PLC systems.
• Design and implement SIS per industry standards.
• Analyze process data to identify control improvements.
• Collaborate with process engineers and operations on control requirements.
• Develop and execute test plans for control modifications.
• Provide remote support and training on control system operation.
• Stay current with process control technology advancements.
• Document control system designs, logic, and configurations.

Skills

Control theory

DCS/PLC programming

MPC

Fuzzy logic

Neural networks

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Emerson DeltaV

Honeywell Experion

Siemens PCS 7

PLC programming

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Control Engineer for a fully remote opportunity. This pivotal role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing advanced process control (APC) strategies for chemical manufacturing processes. You will be instrumental in enhancing plant efficiency, stability, and product quality from your remote work location, serving the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA region and potentially broader operations. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of control theory, DCS/PLC systems, and advanced simulation techniques, coupled with a proven ability to deliver impactful results in a virtual setting. This is an exceptional chance to leverage your expertise in a remote-first environment with a leading chemical industry innovator.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain advanced process control (APC) strategies, including Model Predictive Control (MPC).
• Configure, program, and troubleshoot Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
• Design and implement safety instrumented systems (SIS) according to industry standards.
• Analyze process data to identify opportunities for control system optimization and performance improvement.
• Collaborate with process engineers and operations teams to define control system requirements and solutions.
• Develop and execute test plans for control system modifications and upgrades.
• Provide remote technical support and training to plant personnel on control system operation and best practices.
• Stay current with advancements in process control technology and automation.
• Document control system designs, logic, and configuration thoroughly.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process control engineering, preferably within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• Proven experience with major DCS platforms (e.g., Emerson DeltaV, Honeywell Experion, Siemens PCS 7) and PLC programming.
• Strong knowledge of advanced process control techniques (e.g., MPC, fuzzy logic, neural networks).
• Familiarity with safety instrumented systems (SIS) and relevant standards (e.g., IEC 61511).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in simulation tools for control system design and testing.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for effective remote teamwork.
• Experience working remotely is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan with employer match, and generous paid time off. This fully remote role provides unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance. You'll have the opportunity to work on challenging and technologically advanced projects from your home office, contributing significantly to process optimization. Continuous learning and professional development opportunities will be provided. Join a company that values innovation and empowers its remote workforce.