Senior Process Engineer.

Gig Engineer; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A consulting firm is seeking an experienced Senior Process Engineer to lead process development in Johannesburg, focusing on advancing nuclear fuel technologies for next-generation reactors. Responsibilities include overseeing process design, optimisation, and compliance with safety regulations. Candidates should have substantial experience in chemical or nuclear engineering and strong leadership skills. Competitive salary and professional development opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Professional development opportunities

Flexible work arrangements

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in process engineering, 2 years in leadership.
• Advanced understanding of mass/energy balances and equipment sizing.
• Strong communication skills to present technical information.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of process flows for chemical conversion.
• Oversee process simulations to maximize yield and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with nuclear safety regulations.

Skills

Process design principles

Process simulation software

Project management

Analytical skills

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Nuclear Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

MATLAB

Job description

Gig Engineer is seeking an experienced Senior Process Engineer to lead process development and optimisation efforts on behalf of its client, dedicated to advancing nuclear fuel technologies for next-generation reactors. In this role, you will oversee the design, implementation, and scaling of processes across the Nuclear Fuel Cycle, utilising proprietary ASP and QE technologies to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant operations. The position will be a permanent role based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.

You will drive innovation, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver projects that enhance energy production, reduce nuclear waste, and support next‑generation reactor designs. This position demands advanced technical expertise, leadership skills, and a commitment to advancing nuclear energy solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of process flows for chemical conversion and isotope separation using ASP and QE technologies, ensuring scalability and efficiency.
• Oversee process simulations, modelling, and optimisation to maximise yield, selectivity, and cost‑efficiency in chemical conversion and enrichment processes.
• Guide R&D, engineering, and operations teams in integrating new technologies and scaling processes from laboratory to commercial production.
• Ensure strict compliance with nuclear safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality control protocols, including oversight of radioactive material handling and waste recycling processes.
• Conduct advanced troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and process improvements to enhance reliability, safety, and performance across operations.
• Analyse complex data from experiments and production runs to refine processes, providing strategic insights to optimise yield, safety, and sustainability.
• Prepare and review technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and external partners.
• Mentor and train junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation within the team.
• Stay abreast of industry advancements in nuclear engineering, isotope technologies, and sustainable energy practices, integrating best practices into company processes.
• Contribute to strategic planning for process development projects, aligning with the company’s mission and long‑term goals.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or Nuclear Engineering (Master’s or PhD strongly preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role, ideally within the nuclear, chemical, or energy sectors.
• Advanced understanding of process design principles, including flow diagrams, mass/energy balances, equipment sizing, and process control systems.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, MATLAB, or similar) and data analysis tools for process optimisation.
• Proven leadership and mentoring skills, with the ability to guide multidisciplinary teams in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment.
• Strong project management skills, with experience managing complex projects and meeting deadlines under pressure.
• In‑depth knowledge of safety protocols for handling hazardous materials, including radiation safety and compliance with nuclear regulatory standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and professional development opportunities.
• The chance to work on exciting projects that contribute to global energy sustainability.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment with opportunities for career growth.
• Flexible work arrangements (subject to role requirements).

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply directly to the job ad or by submitting their CV and a summary of relevant experience with the role title in the subject line to [e-mail].

Depending on the response, we may not be able to revert to all applicants individually; therefore, if you have not received a response within 4 weeks from your submission date, please consider your application unsuccessful.