Senior Process Engineer - Lead Chemical Optimization

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

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.