Senior Process Engineer - Petrochemicals

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical and retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer specialized in petrochemicals for a hybrid role based in Polokwane. You will lead design, development, and optimization of complex processes, working on-site during critical phases and remotely for modeling and analysis.

You will ensure process efficiency, safety, and profitability while contributing to major capital projects and ongoing improvements. The role demands leadership and hands-on engagement with operations and project teams.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
• 8+ years in petrochemical/chemical processing focusing on design and optimization.
• Experience with process simulations using Aspen Plus and/or HYSYS.
• Strong understanding of unit operations in petrochemical plants.
• Ability to lead projects in a hybrid remote/on-site model.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design and detailed engineering of petrochemical processes.
• Perform process simulations and economic evaluations for new projects and modifications.
• Ensure processes meet safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical support to operations and project teams.
• Optimize existing processes to improve yield, reduce energy use, and minimize waste.
• Mentor junior engineers and share knowledge across the department.

Skills

Process design

Process optimization

Project leadership

Hybrid collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned Senior Process Engineer specializing in petrochemicals for a hybrid role based in Polokwane. You will lead the design, development, and optimization of complex petrochemical processes. This role requires a blend of on-site engagement for critical project phases and operational reviews, coupled with remote work capabilities for detailed analysis, modeling, and team collaboration. You will play a vital role in ensuring process efficiency, safety, and profitability within a challenging industrial landscape, contributing to major capital projects and ongoing operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual design and detailed engineering of petrochemical processes.
• Perform process simulations and economic evaluations for new projects and modifications.
• Ensure processes meet stringent safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide technical expertise and support to operations and project teams.
• Optimize existing processes to improve yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing within the engineering department.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent in Chemical Engineering.
• 8+ years of experience in the petrochemical or chemical processing industry, with a focus on process design and optimization.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of unit operations common in petrochemical plants.
• Proven ability to lead projects and work effectively in a hybrid remote/on-site model.
• Excellent technical and leadership skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and project leadership.
• Engage with diverse and challenging petrochemical projects.