Pilot Plant Process Engineer

About the Role

Saudi Aramco is seeking a Pilot Plant Process Engineer to join the Research & Analytical Services Department (RASD). This full-time position involves developing innovative solutions for complex technical problems, designing pilot plants, and preparing detailed engineering packages for new pilot plant construction to support R&D projects. The role also includes scaling up reactor and process configurations from laboratory to commercial scale using modeling and simulation techniques.

Department Overview

The Research & Analytical Services Department (RASD) operates advanced pilot plant facilities that support research, technology development, and specialized technical services. RASD collaborates with customers to build pilot plant assets and innovate in oil and gas resource development through solutions, technology scale-up, and engineering support for corporate operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative solutions for complex technical problems.
• Participate in pilot plant design, including establishing process design basis, developing process options, and optimizing selected designs.
• Contribute to the development of experimental designs for R&D and commercial programs.
• Prepare specifications (process flow diagrams) and operating instructions for pilot plants.
• Direct activities to ensure new pilot plant project schedules, construction, cost estimates, installation, and operational testing comply with functional specifications, recognized codes, standards, and R&D project requirements.
• Develop kinetic and reactor models using pilot plant data and scale up catalyst performance to commercial scale reactors.
• Develop innovative reactor and process configurations using kinetics, reactor modeling, process simulation, and CFD modeling.
• Manage and execute small to medium-sized projects.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering is required; an advanced degree is strongly preferred.
• A minimum of 10+ years of experience in a plant operation or engineering role is required.
• 5 to 8 years of plant site or R&D experience in an oil refinery, chemical plant, or similar hydrocarbon industry is desired.
• Competency in pilot plant operations is a strong advantage.

Required Skills

• Strong skills in kinetics and reactor modeling, utilizing software such as MATLAB, Aspen Custom Modeler, or gPROMS.
• Proficiency in process simulation software, including Aspen Plus, Aspen HYSYS, or Pro/II.
• Experience with current statutory regulations, industry standards, and recommended practices, with practical application knowledge.
• Ability to work in an unstructured environment to develop new systems and infrastructure.
• Understanding of area classifications and specification of site equipment.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in supporting operations and technical teams.
• Excellent command of verbal and written English, with the capability to write and present technical papers.

Application Process

Candidates who meet the above qualifications are encouraged to apply for this challenging role within Saudi Aramco.