Senior Process Design Engineer - Petrochemicals

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Paid time off

Relocation assistance

International travel

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Design Engineer to lead the design and optimization of chemical processes in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The role supports a hybrid model balancing in-office collaboration with remote productivity, driving safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in process design, proficiency in Aspen Plus/HYSYS, and a P&ID/HAZOP track record.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in process design within chemical/petrochemical sectors.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with P&ID development, equipment specification, and scale-up.
• Demonstrated leadership and mentoring of engineers; strong communication skills.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) with ECSA or eligible.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual design of chemical processes from pilot to full commercial operation.
• Conduct detailed process simulations, P&ID development and HAZOP studies.
• Perform mass and energy balances, equipment sizing and specification.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations and project management for project execution.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior staff.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing plant processes to improve yield and safety.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards and safety protocols.
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews and proposals.
• Manage process design aspects of capital projects from feasibility to commissioning.

Skills

Process design

Chemical engineering

Team leadership

Project management

HAZOP

LOPA

P&ID

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

P&ID tooling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the chemical industry, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Design Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal role involves spearheading the design and optimization of complex chemical processes, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving innovation and delivering high-quality engineering solutions for a variety of challenging projects. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact within a reputable organization known for its commitment to excellence and sustainable practices. The hybrid work model offers a balance between collaborative in-office work and focused remote productivity, ensuring flexibility while maintaining team cohesion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of chemical processes from pilot scale to full commercial operation.
• Conduct detailed process simulations, P&ID development, and HAZOP studies.
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations, equipment sizing, and specification.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, and project management, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing plant processes to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Ensure all designs adhere to relevant industry standards, regulations, and our client's stringent safety protocols.
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project proposals.
• Manage process design aspects of capital projects, from feasibility studies through to commissioning.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process design within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with P&ID development, equipment specification, and scale-up.
• Demonstrated experience in leading process design efforts and mentoring engineers.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in conducting risk assessments and safety studies (HAZOP, LOPA).
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) with ECSA or eligible for registration.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Generous paid time off and holiday leave.
• Potential for international travel for specialized training or project involvement.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.