Senior Process Engineer - Renewable Energy Systems

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Hybrid work

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks a Senior Process Engineer to lead design and optimization of renewable energy processes.

You will analyze existing systems, develop new process flows, run simulations, and collaborate with R&D and operations to ensure safe, efficient plant performance.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering with 8+ years in energy process engineering and a data-driven mindset.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the energy sector, with a focus on renewables.
• Experience with process design, simulation (Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), and optimization.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat/mass transfer.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Pr.Eng. status is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing energy production and distribution processes to identify opportunities for optimization.
• Design and develop new process flows and equipment specs for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, biomass).
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for proposed modifications and installations.
• Oversee implementation and commissioning of new process equipment and systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance to meet project goals.
• Develop and maintain process documentation (P&IDs, manuals, safety procedures).
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Data-driven

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

PRO/II

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Process Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is pivotal in driving the efficiency and effectiveness of our client's energy generation and distribution processes. You will be instrumental in analyzing, designing, and optimizing complex systems that harness sustainable energy sources. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles applied to energy production, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and mass transfer within large-scale industrial operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the green energy revolution and to work within a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and professional growth. You will play a crucial part in ensuring our client remains at the forefront of energy technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing energy production and distribution processes to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Design and develop new process flows and equipment specifications for renewable energy projects, focusing on solar, wind, and biomass.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for proposed process modifications and new installations.
• Oversee the implementation and commissioning of new process equipment and systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in energy generation facilities, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, operations, and maintenance, to achieve project goals.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating manuals, and safety procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to the team.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices in the renewable energy field.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the energy sector, with a strong focus on renewables.
• Proven experience in process design, simulation (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II), and optimization.
• In-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat/mass transfer principles.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in relevant engineering software and simulation tools.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) status is highly desirable.
• Experience with plant operations and troubleshooting is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan options.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and innovative projects in the renewable energy space.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on sustainability.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Potential for hybrid work arrangements to promote work-life balance.