Senior Thermal Design Engineer - Industrial Processes

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical & retirement benefits

Growth opportunities

Challenging projects

International projects

On-site at Polokwane

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Thermal Design Engineer for our client in Polokwane, Limpopo. Lead the design and optimization of thermal systems—heat exchangers, furnaces, boilers, and cooling systems—for large industrial plants.

Expect mentoring, detailed calculations, and rigorous reporting to meet safety and efficiency standards. You will work on high-impact projects using advanced simulation tools, collaborate with process and mechanical teams, and ensure compliance with ASME/API codes.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Sciences.
• 8+ years of experience in thermal design for industrial processes.
• Extensive hands-on experience with CFD and process simulation software.
• In-depth knowledge of heat exchanger design and combustion systems.
• Proficient in reading P&IDs and technical drawings.
• Strong familiarity with ASME and API codes.
• Excellent analytical and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of complex thermal systems.
• Apply heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics to solve industrial problems.
• Develop and validate thermal models using CFD and process simulation tools.
• Create P&IDs, equipment specs, and technical reports.
• Collaborate with process, mechanical engineers, and project managers.
• Mentor junior thermal engineers.
• Oversee procurement, fabrication, and commissioning of thermal equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety and industry standards.

Skills

Leadership

Thermal design

Heat transfer

Thermodynamics

CFD tools

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

Aspen HYSYS

CFD software

FEA (thermal)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned specialist in industrial process design and optimization, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Thermal Design Engineer to lead critical projects from their offices in Polokwane, Limpopo. This on-site role is crucial for driving innovation in heat transfer and thermodynamics within complex industrial applications, including chemical plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities. You will be responsible for the conceptualization, design, analysis, and optimization of thermal systems, such as heat exchangers, furnaces, boilers, and cooling systems. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer principles, coupled with extensive experience in using advanced simulation tools. You will mentor junior engineers, collaborate with cross‑functional teams, and ensure that all designs meet stringent performance, safety, and efficiency requirements. This position offers the opportunity to work on challenging, high‑impact projects and contribute to significant advancements in industrial process engineering within the Limpopo region and beyond. Your work will directly influence the operational efficiency and sustainability of major industrial clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of complex thermal systems, including heat exchangers, furnaces, boilers, and refrigeration systems.
• Apply advanced principles of heat transfer, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics to solve challenging industrial process problems.
• Utilize and develop sophisticated thermal modeling and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, Aspen HYSYS, CFD software) for design validation.
• Develop detailed design calculations, P&IDs, equipment specifications, and technical reports.
• Collaborate with process engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers to integrate thermal systems into larger plant designs.
• Perform root cause analysis for thermal performance issues and recommend effective solutions.
• Ensure designs comply with industry codes, standards (e.g., ASME), and safety regulations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior thermal engineers.
• Oversee the procurement, fabrication, and commissioning of thermal equipment.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in thermal technology and industrial process design.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Thermal Sciences or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in thermal design and analysis, with a strong focus on industrial processes.
• Extensive hands-on experience with thermal simulation software (CFD, FEA for thermal analysis) and process simulation software.
• In-depth knowledge of heat exchanger design, combustion systems, and industrial cooling technologies.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting P&IDs, technical drawings, and specifications.
• Strong understanding of relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., ASME, API).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities, with experience mentoring technical staff.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Experience in the petrochemical, chemical, or power generation industries is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package, reflecting senior expertise.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Work on challenging and impactful industrial process projects.
• Supportive team environment in our Polokwane office.
• Access to advanced design and simulation tools.
• Annual bonuses based on performance and project success.
• Potential for international project involvement.