Senior Process Engineer - Chemical Plant

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

Benefits offered by this job

Home office stipend

Flexible hours

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Engineer for a remote-based role supporting facilities near Port Elizabeth. You will optimize chemical processes, run simulations, troubleshoot, and drive safety and environmental compliance across plants.

Ideal candidates bring 6+ years in chemical process engineering, proficiency with Aspen Plus/HYSYS, and strong project leadership with remote collaboration across teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 6 years of process engineering experience in chemical manufacturing.
• Strong proficiency in Aspen Plus and HYSYS for simulations.
• Experience with P&IDs, PFDs, and process safety management (PSM).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven track record of managing complex projects and cross-functional teams.
• Strong remote communication and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Knowledge of industry regulations and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to improve efficiency and product quality.
• Conduct process simulations, modeling, and feasibility studies for new projects.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement solutions to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain process documentation (P&IDs, PFDs, SOPs).
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with plant engineers and operators for technical guidance.
• Manage process improvement projects from concept to implementation.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment for adoption.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and optimization opportunities.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Process design

Process simulation

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Project management

Remote communication

Regulatory knowledge

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

PSM

P&IDs

PFDs

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the chemical industry, is seeking an accomplished Senior Process Engineer to join their team, remotely based but supporting operations near Port Elizabeth . This role is vital for optimizing chemical processes, improving efficiency, and ensuring the safety and environmental compliance of plant operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in process design, simulation, troubleshooting, and scale-up within chemical manufacturing. You will be responsible for analyzing complex data, developing innovative solutions, and collaborating with on-site teams to implement process improvements. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced engineer to contribute significantly to a leading company while enjoying the flexibility of a remote work arrangement, supporting vital chemical production facilities. The role requires a deep technical understanding and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence, and this position is central to achieving those goals. Your expertise will be crucial in enhancing production yields and maintaining our client's high standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes to improve efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Conduct process simulations, modeling, and feasibility studies for new projects and modifications.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and improve performance.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, PFDs, and operating procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with plant engineers and operators to provide technical support and guidance.
• Manage process improvement projects from conception to implementation.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment for potential adoption.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and opportunities for optimization.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management and project teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Strong proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Experience with P&IDs, PFDs, and process safety management (PSM).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and cross‑functional teams.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively remotely.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with statistical analysis and data interpretation.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.

Benefits

• Competitive remote salary package.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
• Generous annual leave and flexible working hours.
• Company-Provided home office equipment and stipend.
• Significant autonomy and the ability to influence process improvements.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging chemical processes.
• Contribution to a leading chemical manufacturing firm's success.
• Potential for future on‑site or leadership roles as operations evolve.
• Regular virtual team-building activities and communication channels.