Principal Process Engineer - Petrochemicals

Our client, a leading innovator in the chemical industry, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Process Engineer to join their esteemed team in **Denver, Colorado, US**. This senior role demands a deep understanding of chemical processes, particularly within the petrochemical sector, and a proven ability to optimize, troubleshoot, and design complex chemical plants. You will be instrumental in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of our operations, driving process improvements, and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional analytical skills, a strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, and a forward-thinking approach to process engineering challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the design, development, and optimization of chemical processes for petrochemical applications. Conduct rigorous process simulations and modeling using software like Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar tools to evaluate process performance and identify areas for improvement. Develop Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices. Perform hazard and operability studies (HAZOPs), risk assessments, and safety analyses to ensure plant safety and compliance. Troubleshoot operational issues, diagnose root causes, and implement effective solutions to maintain optimal plant performance. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including R&D, operations, and maintenance, to support plant upgrades, debottlenecking projects, and new facility designs. Specify process equipment, control systems, and instrumentation. Develop and implement process control strategies to enhance efficiency, product quality, and safety. Evaluate new technologies and methodologies to improve existing processes and develop innovative solutions. Mentor and guide junior process engineers, fostering technical growth and knowledge transfer. Contribute to capital project execution, from conceptual design through commissioning and startup. Ensure all process designs comply with relevant environmental regulations and company sustainability goals.

Qualifications:

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the petrochemical or chemical manufacturing industry. Extensive experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, ChemCAD). In-depth knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and mass transfer principles. Proven experience with HAZOP, LOPA, and other safety analysis techniques. Strong understanding of P&IDs, PFDs, and process control systems. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience mentoring technical staff. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders. Proficiency in project management methodologies. Commitment to environmental stewardship and process safety. This is a vital role for our client, offering the chance to significantly impact process performance and safety in a challenging and rewarding environment.