Senior Process Mechanical Engineer

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

International development exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Process Mechanical Engineer for our Richards Bay facility in KwaZulu-Natal, SA. The role focuses on optimizing mechanical integrity and performance of process equipment, including rotating and static systems, while driving reliability and safety.

With 10+ years in petrochemical or related industries, you will lead design, maintenance strategies, RCFA, and project oversight, mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with operations and safety teams on

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years in process mechanical engineering within petrochemical/oil & gas/chemical industries.
• Deep knowledge of rotating and static equipment, piping systems and pressure vessel design.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design, installation, operation, and maintenance of process equipment including pumps, compressors, turbines, heat exchangers, and reactors.
• Perform mechanical integrity assessments and RBI-based maintenance strategies.
• Conduct RCFA and implement corrective actions for failures.
• Develop and review technical specs for new equipment procurement and modifications.
• Ensure compliance with API/ASME codes and safety regulations.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for mechanical issues.
• Manage mechanical engineering projects including scope, budgeting, scheduling, and contractor oversight.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and safety teams to optimize performance.
• Mentor junior engineers and staff.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices in process mechanical engineering.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Mechanical Eng. degree (BEng/MEng)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Mechanical Engineer to join their vital operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This role is critical for optimizing and maintaining the mechanical integrity and performance of process equipment within their state-of-the-art facility. You will be responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of all mechanical systems, including rotating and static equipment, piping, and pressure vessels. This is a hands‑on, site‑based position requiring deep technical expertise and a proactive approach to problem‑solving. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in process industries, exceptional analytical skills, and a commitment to upholding the highest safety and operational standards. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence and ensuring the continuous smooth running of complex industrial processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the mechanical design, installation, operation, and maintenance of process equipment, including pumps, compressors, turbines, heat exchangers, and reactors.
• Perform mechanical integrity assessments and develop strategies for predictive and preventive maintenance programs.
• Conduct root cause failure analysis (RCFA) for mechanical equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and review technical specifications for new equipment procurement and modifications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry codes, standards (e.g., API, ASME), and safety regulations.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for mechanical issues impacting plant operations.
• Manage mechanical engineering projects, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, and contractor oversight.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and safety teams to optimize plant performance and reliability.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technical staff.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices in process mechanical engineering.

Requirements

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in process mechanical engineering within the petrochemical, oil & gas, or chemical industries.
• In-depth knowledge of rotating and static equipment, piping systems, and pressure vessel design and integrity.
• Proven experience with mechanical integrity management systems and risk-based inspection (RBI) methodologies.
• Strong understanding of relevant industry codes and standards (API, ASME, etc.).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated project management experience.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant engineering software and analysis tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a plant environment and adapt to operational demands.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, performance bonuses, and opportunities for international professional development. This role is based at our extensive facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .