Senior Process Design Engineer - Water Treatment Specialist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Design Engineer with a focus on water treatment and wastewater systems. This remote-first role supports a global client base from Stellenbosch, Western Cape, requiring leadership in PFDs, P&IDs, and mass/energy balances.

You will mentor junior engineers, drive FEED studies, and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver sustainable water solutions worldwide.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Environmental Engineering.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive process design experience in water/wastewater.
• Experience with PFDs, P&IDs and mass/energy balances.
• Knowledge of membrane filtration, ion exchange, activated sludge, disinfection.

Responsibilities

• Lead the process design for water and wastewater facilities.
• Develop conceptual designs, FEED, and front-end documents.
• Create PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications.
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations.
• Select and size treatment equipment; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with project managers and other engineers remotely.
• Conduct modeling and optimization; support construction and startup.
• Mentor junior process engineers.

Skills

Process design

Water treatment

Analytical thinking

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Environmental Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Aspen Water

BioWin

CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in innovative environmental solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Process Design Engineer with a specialization in water treatment technologies. This role is critical to the conceptualization and development of cutting-edge water purification and wastewater management systems. As a key member of our remote-first engineering team, you will leverage your expertise to design robust, efficient, and sustainable solutions for a global clientele. You will be responsible for developing process flow diagrams, mass and energy balances, equipment specifications, and P&IDs for a wide range of water treatment projects. This position demands a deep understanding of physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. The ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams in a virtual setting is paramount. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced engineer to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability while enjoying the autonomy and flexibility of a fully remote role, impacting water security globally. Your work will directly contribute to providing clean water solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the process design for industrial and municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities. Develop conceptual designs, feasibility studies, and front-end engineering designs (FEED). Create detailed process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications. Perform mass and energy balance calculations for complex treatment processes. Select and size appropriate treatment equipment (e.g., pumps, membranes, clarifiers, reactors). Ensure designs comply with all relevant environmental regulations, standards, and codes. Collaborate closely with project managers, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers in a remote setting. Conduct process modeling and simulation to optimize treatment performance and cost-effectiveness. Provide technical support during construction, commissioning, and start-up phases. Mentor and guide junior process engineers.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering; Master's degree preferred. Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process design, specifically within water and wastewater treatment. Extensive knowledge of various water treatment technologies (e.g., membrane filtration, ion exchange, activated sludge, disinfection). Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Water, BioWin) and CAD tools. Strong understanding of water chemistry, hydraulics, and environmental engineering principles. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for effective remote collaboration. Proven ability to manage design projects and work independently. Experience with pilot plant studies and data analysis. Demonstrated commitment to sustainable engineering practices.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including excellent health coverage, retirement planning, and performance bonuses. We provide extensive opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training and support for professional certifications. This role is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the chance to work from anywhere, while making a tangible impact on environmental solutions from our **Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA** operational hub.