Process Development Engineer

Our client, a leading multinational corporation in the chemical industry, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Process Development Engineer specializing in petrochemicals to join their state-of-the-art facility in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, NG .

This role is central to driving process improvements, optimizing existing production methods, and developing new chemical processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. You will be involved in the entire lifecycle of process development, from conceptualization and laboratory-scale experimentation to pilot plant trials and full-scale commercial implementation.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical foundation in chemical engineering principles, coupled with hands-on experience in process simulation, scale-up, and troubleshooting. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, production, and engineering, to achieve project goals. This position requires a rigorous analytical approach, a commitment to safety, and a passion for innovation in chemical manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to develop and optimize chemical processes for petrochemical production.
• Utilize process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II) to model and analyze process performance.
• Develop and execute pilot plant studies to validate process designs and gather scale-up data.
• Collaborate with the R&D team on new product development and process scale-up challenges.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues in existing production processes.
• Perform process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety improvements.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and provide technical training to plant personnel.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment for potential implementation to improve process efficiency and output.
• Monitor key process indicators and identify opportunities for optimization.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, proposals, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company safety standards.
• Manage project timelines and resources for process development initiatives.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement culture within the engineering department.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A Master's degree or PhD is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process development, optimization, or chemical engineering roles within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of chemical engineering principles, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Hands-on experience with laboratory or pilot plant operations.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) and hazard analysis techniques (e.g., HAZOP).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Understanding of scale-up principles and challenges.

This is a challenging and rewarding role for a dedicated Chemical Engineer looking to make a significant impact on process innovation in the petrochemical sector.