Senior Process Engineer - Petrochemical Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Bonuses

Relocation assistance

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Engineer in Mossel Bay, Western Cape to optimize petrochemical processes, drive safety, and ensure reliability. You will troubleshoot complex systems, lead improvements, and mentor junior engineers in a fast-paced energy environment.

The ideal candidate has a chemical engineering degree, 7+ years of relevant experience, and strong skills in process simulation (Aspen Plus, HYSYS) with a PSM focus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of process engineering experience in petrochemical/oil and gas.
• Proven design, simulation, and troubleshooting capabilities.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM).
• Knowledge of relevant codes and standards; ECSA Pr. Eng. is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize petrochemical process designs and procedures.
• Conduct simulations, troubleshoot, and debottleneck to improve efficiency.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead root-cause analyses and drive corrective actions.
• Mentor junior engineers and support capital project proposals.

Skills

Process design

Troubleshooting

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Education

BEng Chemical Engineering

Pr. Eng. a plus

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the energy sector, is seeking a highly experienced and driven Senior Process Engineer to join their dynamic team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This is a critical role responsible for optimizing and ensuring the efficiency, safety, and reliability of complex petrochemical processes. You will be instrumental in driving innovation and continuous improvement within a fast-paced operational environment. The successful candidate will leverage their deep technical expertise to troubleshoot issues, implement best practices, and contribute to strategic decision-making. This role offers the chance to work on cutting-edge projects and make a significant impact in the South African energy landscape. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, maintenance, and project management, to achieve operational excellence. The environment demands a proactive approach and a commitment to upholding the highest industry standards for safety and environmental stewardship. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional looking to advance their career within a reputable organization. We are committed to fostering a culture of learning and development, providing ample opportunities for professional growth. The team is composed of dedicated professionals passionate about the energy industry and committed to collective success. Join us and be part of a team that powers progress and innovation in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize process designs and operating procedures for petrochemical plants.
• Conduct thorough process simulations, troubleshooting, and debottlenecking activities to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental standards, and operational policies.
• Perform root cause analysis for operational failures and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with the engineering and operations teams on process improvements and new project initiatives.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Manage process safety information and conduct hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on process performance.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements and industry best practices in petrochemical engineering.
• Contribute to capital expenditure proposals and feasibility studies for process upgrades and new installations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering within the petrochemical or oil and gas industry.
• Proven track record in process design, simulation, and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and practices.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively.
• Knowledge of relevant industry codes and standards.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding operational environment.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) with ECSA is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.
• Annual leave and paid sick leave.
• Access to employee wellness programs.
• Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization.
• Chance to work on significant projects in the Western Cape energy sector.