Senior Process Design Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Home office stipend

Healthcare benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Design Engineer to lead P&ID/PFD development and simulations for petrochemical projects in a remote-first setup. The role focuses on delivering safe, efficient process designs while mentoring junior engineers.

You will collaborate with global teams, drive feasibility studies, and ensure compliance with industry standards, contributing to sustainability and innovation within a dynamic, distributed work environment based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process design within the petrochemical or related chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar.
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and reaction kinetics.
• Excellent knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead design projects and mentor junior team members.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Proven experience in developing P&IDs and PFDs.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical information remotely.
• Must be a self-starter with excellent time management and organizational skills to thrive in a fully remote environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop P&IDs, PFDs, and mass/energy balances for petrochemical processes.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using Aspen Plus or HYSYS.
• Perform feasibility studies and technical economic evaluations for proposed process modifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in a virtual setting.
• Ensure designs comply with safety, standards, and environmental policies.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing plant operations to improve yield and reduce energy use.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and design documentation for review and approval.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and design teams.
• Manage project timelines and deliverables for process design aspects.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and process innovations within the petrochemical sector.

Skills

Process design

PFDs & P&IDs

Process simulation

PSM & HAZOP

Project leadership

Mentoring

Remote communication

Thermodynamics

Unit operations

Critical thinking

Education

Chemical Engineering (Bachelors)

Chemical Engineering (Masters)

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role Our client, a global leader in chemical innovation and process optimization, is seeking an exceptional Senior Process Design Engineer to join their dynamic and fully remote team. This pivotal role offers the unique opportunity to shape the future of chemical manufacturing from the comfort of your home office. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing cutting-edge process designs for a diverse range of petrochemical projects. We are committed to fostering a remote-first culture, providing extensive resources and support to ensure seamless collaboration and productivity across all distributed team members. Your expertise will directly contribute to enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in complex chemical operations. This is an exciting chance to leverage your skills in a forward-thinking environment that values innovation and employee well-being, making a significant impact on the industry without the need for physical relocation or daily commute. The successful candidate will work on challenging projects, driving technological advancements and maintaining our client's competitive edge.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop P&IDs, PFDs, and mass/energy balances for new and existing petrochemical processes.
• Conduct process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Perform feasibility studies and technical economic evaluations for proposed process modifications.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, and project management, in a virtual setting.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing plant operations to improve yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and design documentation for review and approval.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and design teams.
• Manage project timelines and deliverables for process design aspects, ensuring adherence to schedules.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and process innovations within the petrochemical sector.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process design within the petrochemical or related chemical industry.
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar.
• Strong understanding of unit operations, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and reaction kinetics.
• Excellent knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead design projects and mentor junior team members.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Proven experience in developing P&IDs and PFDs.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical information remotely.
• Must be a self-starter with excellent time management and organizational skills to thrive in a fully remote environment.

Benefits

• Our client is dedicated to providing a comprehensive benefits package for its remote workforce, including competitive remuneration, performance-based bonuses, and an excellent retirement savings plan.
• Employees benefit from generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Professional development is highly encouraged through access to online training platforms, industry conferences (virtual or sponsored travel), and opportunities for career advancement within a growing global organization.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage is provided.
• A home office stipend is available to help set up an optimal and ergonomic workspace.
• Our client fosters a supportive and inclusive remote work culture, promoting work-life balance and employee well-being, all within the convenience of a fully remote setup based in **Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**.