Job Title: Senior/Principal Process Engineer – Petrochemical & Refining (Contract)

Job Description

Location: Fujairah, UAE

Industry: Hard Commodities / Petrochemical & Refining

Recruitment: On behalf of our UAE-based client

About the Role:

We are hiring a Senior/Principal Process Engineer for a leading petrochemical and refining company in the UAE. This role requires expertise in process engineering, technology selection, and project execution for large-scale refining projects. The ideal candidate will lead process design, collaborate with international contractors, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Leadership & Engineering Support:

• Represent the client in a world-class petrochemical and refining project from early engineering design through FEED and EPC.

• Develop and define project scope, Basis of Design, and process inputs for major refinery projects.

• Compile Invitation to Bid (ITB) packages for pre-FEED and FEED phases and evaluate contractor proposals.

Technology & Licensing:

• Assist in pre-qualifying and assessing process technology licensors and technology providers.

• Review and analyze Preliminary Design Packages (PDPs), Basic Design Packages, and related study reports.

Process Design & Optimization:

• Provide critical process inputs for the design, selection, and optimization of large-scale petrochemical plants.

• Ensure process safety and environmental compliance while optimizing plant efficiency and operational performance.

• Utilize Aspen PIMS, Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or similar software for process simulation and design validation.

Documentation & Risk Management:

• Review, approve, and provide feedback on process-related documentation, including PFDs, BFDs, process philosophies, design specifications, and technical drawings.

• Participate in risk assessments and safety studies to mitigate potential hazards in plant design and operations.

Collaboration & Execution:

• Coordinate with international engineering firms, technology licensors, vendors, and project teams to ensure project success.

• Support contractor selection, vendor negotiations, and project execution phases.

• Lead multidisciplinary teams, providing technical leadership and troubleshooting expertise.

Reporting & Communication:

• Prepare and present technical reports, analysis, and recommendations to senior management and key stakeholders.

• Maintain clear and effective communication across cross-functional teams, contractors, and engineering specialists.

Qualifications & Skills:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Process or Chemical Engineering (Petrochemistry specialization preferred).

• 10+ years of experience in downstream process engineering, refining, or petrochemical projects.

• Expertise in large-scale EPC projects, technology licensor management, and refinery process optimization.

Technical Expertise:

• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical and refining processes, including ISBL and OSBL facility design.

• Proficiency in Aspen PIMS, Aspen Plus, HYSYS, or other advanced process modeling tools.

• Understanding of international engineering standards, safety regulations, and UAE compliance requirements.

Soft Skills & Additional Qualifications:

• Strong problem-solving abilities and project coordination experience.

• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills to manage cross-functional teams.

• Fluent in English (Arabic proficiency is a plus).

• Willingness to travel internationally and work across different time zones.

• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.

Employment Type:

Contract – Initial Duration: 12+ Months