Senior Process Engineer - Upstream Operations

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer for upstream oil and gas operations in Richards Bay, South Africa. The role emphasizes safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across production processes.

The candidate will lead process optimization projects, develop PFDs/P&IDs, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 7+ years of process engineering experience in Oil & Gas, upstream focus.
• Experience with process simulation software (HYSYS, Aspen Plus).
• Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, mass transfer, and reaction kinetics.
• Ability to manage complex projects from conception to completion.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement process improvements for upstream oil and gas operations, focusing on efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct detailed process simulations and analyses to identify bottlenecks and optimization opportunities.
• Oversee commissioning and start-up of new process units and equipment, ensuring safety and design compliance.
• Develop and maintain PFDs and P&IDs and other essential engineering documents.
• Troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to maximize production.
• Ensure all designs meet regulatory, environmental, and safety standards.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project teams to meet objectives.

Skills

Chemical engineering knowledge

Analytical problem solving

Strong communication

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

HYSYS

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Process Engineer to join their dynamic team. This critical role is based in the industrial hub of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA , and will involve significant hands‑on engagement with upstream operational processes. The successful candidate will be instrumental in optimizing production, ensuring safety, and driving innovation within our client's South African operations. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a leading organization in a vital industry, working on complex projects that demand both technical expertise and strategic thinking. We are looking for a dedicated professional who thrives in challenging environments and is committed to operational excellence and sustainable practices in the energy sector. The role requires a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles applied to the oil and gas production lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement process improvements for upstream oil and gas operations, focusing on efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct detailed process simulations and analyses to identify potential bottlenecks and areas for optimization.
• Oversee the commissioning and start-up of new process units and equipment, ensuring they meet design specifications and safety standards.
• Develop and maintain Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and other essential engineering documentation.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and maximize production.
• Ensure all process designs and operations comply with relevant industry regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, maintenance, and project management, to achieve project and business objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering within the Oil & Gas industry, with a strong focus on upstream operations.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., HYSYS, Aspen Plus).
• In-depth knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, mass transfer, and reaction kinetics.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex engineering projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of safety procedures and environmental regulations pertinent to the Oil & Gas sector.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) or eligibility for registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Experience working in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA or similar industrial environments is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus structure.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and generous annual leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, continuous training, and career advancement within a leading international energy company are abundant.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates outside the immediate Richards Bay area.
• Join a supportive and innovative work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued, contributing to significant projects in the heart of South Africa's industrial landscape.