Senior Process Design Engineer (Remote)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Fully remote role

Generous annual leave

Performance-based bonuses

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Process Design Engineer to drive the concept-to-detailed design of chemical processes in a fully remote South Africa position.

You will develop flowsheets and P&IDs, run Aspen Plus/HYSYS/ChemCAD simulations, perform mass/energy balances, and size equipment with a strong safety focus.

The ideal candidate holds a chemical engineering degree with 7+ years of experience; Pr.Eng/ECSA eligibility is a plus, and strong communication is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of progressive process design experience in chemical/petrochemical industries.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus, HYSYS and ChemCAD.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat/mass transfer, and kinetics.
• HAZOP/PHA experience and safety-focused design.
• Pr.Eng with ECSA is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop process flowsheets and P&IDs from concept to detailed design.
• Run process simulations and mass/energy balances.
• Size equipment and select materials for process units.
• Evaluate technologies to meet project objectives and performance criteria.
• Prepare technical specs for equipment, instruments, control systems.
• Conduct PHAs/HAZOP studies to ensure inherent safety in designs.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and project management teams.
• Support junior engineers during construction and commissioning.
• Stay updated on process design best practices.
• Contribute to design methodology improvements.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Time management

Self-discipline

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

ChemCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in sustainable chemical processing, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Process Design Engineer to join their dynamic and expanding team. This is a fully remote, permanent position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will play a critical role in conceptualizing, developing, and optimizing chemical processes that adhere to the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. As a senior member of the engineering department, you will be instrumental in driving innovation and ensuring the successful implementation of groundbreaking projects. Your expertise will be vital in translating theoretical concepts into practical, scalable, and commercially viable solutions. This role demands a proactive approach, strong analytical skills, and a passion for tackling complex engineering challenges. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative, remote-first environment, contributing significantly to our client's mission of shaping the future of the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and design innovative chemical process flowsheets and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) from conceptualization through to detailed engineering.
• Conduct rigorous process simulations, calculations, and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations, equipment sizing, and material selection for various process units.
• Evaluate and select appropriate process technologies and equipment to meet project objectives and performance criteria.
• Prepare detailed technical specifications for process equipment, instruments, and control systems.
• Conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), HAZOP studies, and risk assessments to ensure inherent safety in process designs.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, and project management, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Provide technical support and guidance to junior engineers and site personnel during the construction, commissioning, and operational phases.
• Stay abreast of the latest technological advancements and best practices in chemical engineering and process design.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design methodologies and engineering standards within the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process design and engineering within the chemical, petrochemical, or related industries.
• Proven proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, ChemCAD).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and reaction kinetics.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting HAZOP studies and other PHA methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a remote team, demonstrating strong self-discipline and time management.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) with ECSA or eligibility for registration is highly advantageous.
• Experience with project management principles and stage-gate processes is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, comprehensive health insurance, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a fully remote role, working from the comfort of your home in Johannesburg or any other approved location.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking company that values innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance.
• Access to cutting-edge projects and the chance to make a tangible impact on sustainable chemical engineering practices await you.
• Our client also provides a generous annual leave allowance and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• We foster a supportive and inclusive work environment where your contributions are recognized and rewarded.