Senior Process Engineer - Petrochemical Optimization

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonus

Vacation and sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Principal Process Engineer to lead the design, optimization, and scale-up of major chemical processes. You will drive yield enhancements, energy efficiency, and safety while mentoring engineers and delivering robust process models.

The role requires 10+ years of petrochemical experience, a B.Sc./M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, and expertise in Aspen Plus and HYSYS. On-site role with strong regulatory and safety focus.

Qualifications

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering required.
• 10+ years of progressive process engineering experience in petrochemical/chemical manufacturing.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software and unit operations.
• Strong knowledge of PSM and HAZOP studies.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and optimization of complex chemical processes to improve efficiency, yield, and safety.
• Develop and validate process models using simulation software such as Aspen Plus and HYSYS.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and scale-up from laboratory to commercial scale.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions for stability and performance.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for process improvements and new plant designs.
• Mentor junior process engineers and ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, specifications, and project proposals.

Skills

Process simulation

Leadership

Project management

Problem solving

Education

B.Sc./M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Thermodynamic packages

Unit operations

Job description

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Principal Process Engineer to lead the design, optimization, and scale-up of major chemical processes. You will drive yield enhancements, energy efficiency, and safety while mentoring engineers and delivering robust process models.

The role requires 10+ years of petrochemical experience, a B.Sc./M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, and expertise in Aspen Plus and HYSYS. On-site role with strong regulatory and safety focus.