Senior Process Engineer - Virtual Plant Design (Remote)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Engineer for a fully remote role focused on virtual plant design and process simulation. You will develop PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specs, and perform sophisticated simulations using Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or UniSim, while conducting PHAs/HAZOPs. Strong communication in remote global teams is essential.

Master's in Chemical Engineering and 8+ years of experience in plant design and process safety are required. Proficiency with CAD tools is a plus.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Strong experience in process design and plant simulation.
• Proficiency with Aspen Plus, HYSYS or similar tools and LOPA/PHAs.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of process designs including PFDs, P&IDs, heat and material balances.
• Run advanced process simulations to optimize plant performance.
• Perform PHAs/HAZOPs and risk assessments for designed processes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in a virtual environment.

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

UniSim

CAD software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent engineering consultancy firm specializing in the design and optimization of industrial facilities, is seeking a Senior Process Engineer for a fully remote role. This position will focus on virtual plant design and process simulation for major capital projects. You will be responsible for developing PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, and performing complex process simulations and safety analyses using advanced software tools. This role requires a highly skilled and motivated engineer who can work independently and collaborate effectively with global project teams through digital platforms. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of various chemical processes and has a proven track record in designing efficient and safe industrial plants. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant projects while enjoying the flexibility of a remote work arrangement. Your expertise will be crucial in delivering innovative and cost-effective designs to our client's diverse clientele.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of process designs, including PFDs, P&IDs, heat and material balances, and equipment specifications.
• Perform advanced process simulations using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, UniSim) to model and optimize plant performance.
• Conduct rigorous Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), HAZOP studies, and risk assessments for designed processes.
• Develop technical specifications for process equipment such as reactors, distillation columns, heat exchangers, and pumps.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation) in a virtual environment to ensure integrated design solutions.
• Review and validate designs prepared by junior engineers, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant industry codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to front-end engineering design (FEED) and detailed design phases of capital projects.
• Prepare technical reports, design summaries, and present findings to project stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on plant design and simulation.
• Expert proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar.
• Thorough understanding of process safety principles, including HAZOP and LOPA.
• Experience with 3D modeling and CAD software is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to work effectively in remote team settings.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a deadline-driven environment.
• Candidates must be highly self-motivated, detail-oriented, and possess excellent organizational skills.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement savings plans.
• Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of a fully remote work arrangement, allowing you to work from anywhere.
• Opportunities to work on challenging and high-profile international projects.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
• A collaborative and supportive virtual team environment.
• Our client values work-life balance and offers resources to support employee well-being.
• This role is remote, with strategic relevance to major industrial developments often linked to Pretoria, Gauteng.