Remote Principal Chemical Process Design Engineer

About the Role

Our client is seeking an exceptional Principal Chemical Process Design Engineer to join their globally distributed team, operating in a fully remote capacity. This senior role is instrumental in conceptualizing, designing, and developing innovative chemical processes for a diverse range of industrial applications. The Principal Engineer will lead design projects, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with international teams to deliver state-of-the art solutions. This is a remote-first position, offering flexibility while demanding a high degree of autonomy, technical leadership, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of chemical process engineering for our client, regardless of their physical location.

This role is ideal for an experienced professional seeking to leverage their expertise in a flexible, results-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual design and detailed engineering of complex chemical processes, from feasibility studies to full-scale implementation.
• Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and mass and energy balances.
• Perform process simulations and modeling using industry-standard software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, PRO/II).
• Conduct technical reviews and provide expert guidance to engineering teams on process design best practices.
• Identify and implement innovative process technologies and solutions to meet client objectives and market demands.
• Oversee equipment selection, specification, and integration into process designs.
• Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders, clients, and external partners across different geographies.
• Mentor and develop junior process engineers, fostering technical excellence and professional growth within the remote team structure.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in chemical process design and engineering, with a strong focus on leading major projects.
• Extensive experience with process simulation software and advanced process control strategies.
• Proven ability to lead and manage complex design projects independently.
• Deep understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and separation processes.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Outstanding communication, collaboration, and presentation skills, adapted for remote interaction.
• Demonstrated experience working effectively in a remote or distributed team environment.

Benefits

• performance-based incentives
• a comprehensive remote work support package
• excellent health coverage
• a robust retirement savings plan
• ample paid time off
• professional development and continuous learning are strongly encouraged

Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive remote work support package.

As this is a fully remote position, the employee can be based anywhere, though the role is linked to our client's operational hubs, including proximity to areas like Mossel Bay, Western Cape, facilitating potential occasional team gatherings or site visits if required by specific projects.