Senior Process Engineer (Chemical Manufacturing)

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonus

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer in Bloemfontein to lead the optimization of chemical manufacturing processes, conduct simulations, and drive improvements across safety, efficiency, and product quality. You will guide plant modifications, develop P&IDs, and mentor junior engineers.

The role requires 8+ years in chemical process engineering, a strong background in process safety, and proficiency with Aspen Plus or HYSYS. On-site work in Bloemfontein is expected.

Qualifications

• BEng/BSc in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or significant relevant postgraduate experience is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven track record in process design, optimization, troubleshooting, and scale-up.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and process control systems.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer principles.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM) and environmental regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work full-time on-site in Bloemfontein.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of chemical manufacturing processes.
• Conduct process simulations and modelling to identify areas for improve­ment in yield, efficiency, and energy consumption.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in the production plant, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Develop process P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specifications.
• Manage process safety reviews, HAZOP studies, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Oversee plant modifications and commissioning activities, ensuring successful integration and performance.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to implement new technologies and process improvements.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
• Mentor junior process engineers and provide technical guidance to plant personnel.
• Monitor process performance against key metrics and ensure continuous improvement.

Skills

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Team mentorship

Cross-functional collaboration

On-site work

Education

BEng/BSc in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Process control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing company operating in Bloemfontein, Free State , is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Engineer to join their established team. This vital role is focused on optimizing and troubleshooting complex chemical manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, process simulation, and scale-up operations. You will be responsible for leading process improvement initiatives, developing process designs, managing plant modifications, and ensuring compliance with stringent environmental and safety regulations. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career opportunity within a key industrial sector of the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of chemical manufacturing processes.
• Conduct process simulations and modelling to identify areas for improvement in yield, efficiency, and energy consumption.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in the production plant, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Develop process P&IDs, mass and energy balances, and equipment specifications.
• Manage process safety reviews, HAZOP studies, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Oversee plant modifications and commissioning activities, ensuring successful integration and performance.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to implement new technologies and process improvements.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
• Mentor junior process engineers and provide technical guidance to plant personnel.
• Monitor process performance against key metrics and ensure continuous improvement.

Requirements

• BEng/BSc in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or significant relevant postgraduate experience is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven track record in process design, optimization, troubleshooting, and scale-up.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and process control systems.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer principles.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM) and environmental regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work full-time on-site in Bloemfontein .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with the seniority and specialized skills required for this role. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided, along with potential for performance-related bonuses. This position provides excellent opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and career progression within a leading chemical manufacturing organization. You will play a critical role in ensuring operational excellence and innovation in the chemical sector of the Free State .