Lead Process Engineer

One of our International Oilfield Services client is seeking a Lead Process Engineer to be based in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

POSITION OVERVIEW: The Lead Process Engineer is responsible for leading all process engineering activities on large-scale Lithium Extraction and Mineral Recovery projects from FEED through commissioning. This role serves as the technical authority for process design, ensuring that the facilities meet Saudi Aramco and industry standards, project specifications, and operational performance targets. The successful candidate will bring deep EPC project experience, hands-on field knowledge, and a collaborative approach to cross-discipline coordination.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES"

• Lead and own process design deliverables through FEED and detailed design phases, including PFDs, P&IDs, heat and mass balances, process simulations, and design basis documents.
• Serve as the primary technical authority for process chemistry, ion-exchange or membrane separation systems, brine processing, and concentration/purification unit operations.
• Develop process datasheets, equipment specifications, and vendor technical bid evaluations for all process-critical equipment.
• Drive hazard identification and operability studies (HAZOP/HAZID) and manage action close-out in coordination with safety and operations teams.
• Coordinate closely with mechanical, civil, electrical, and instrumentation disciplines to ensure process design integrity across all engineering deliverables.
• Review and approve vendor documentation, equipment designs, and process-related construction submittals.
• Support field construction activities including pre-commissioning, commissioning, start-up, and performance testing; provide hands-on technical presence as required.
• Interface with Saudi Aramco engineering teams and manage technical alignment with client standards (e.g., SAESs, GIs, and applicable codes).
• Mentor junior process engineers; establish and enforce process engineering best practices and design standards on the project.
• Participate in project risk workshops and contribute to schedule and cost alignment for process engineering scope.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 10+ years of process engineering experience on EPC projects in oil & gas, or industrial chemical processing.
• Demonstrated experience on large-scale FEED and detailed design projects; lithium, brine treatment, or mineral processing experience is a strong asset.
• Proficiency in process simulation tools (Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, or equivalent).
• In-depth knowledge of P&ID development, process safety, HAZOP facilitation, and applicable international codes (ASME, API, IChemE).
• Owner's engineering or PMC-side experience in addition to EPC background is a significant advantage.
• Hands-on field experience during construction and commissioning is strongly preferred.
• Willingness to travel to project sites is required.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills; English proficiency required, Arabic is an advantage.