Job Title: Principal Consultant – Process Simulation and Optimization Engineer
Location: Houston, Employment Type: full-time
Salary Range: $124,200.00 - $207,000.00
This role seeks a highly motivated Process Simulation and Optimization Engineer to execute and deliver advanced modeling and optimization solutions for refining, petrochemical, and upstream operations. The position involves developing and deploying open‑equation process models, applying optimization technologies (APO/APS), and supporting both project execution and solution sales.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the execution of process simulation and optimization projects, ensuring technical excellence while meeting customer requirements, budgets, and project timelines.
- Review process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, and plant data; develop, configure, and validate open‑equation process models; automate model workflows and support commissioning of online applications.
- Build and maintain deep expertise in optimization technologies (APO/APS), applying them effectively and innovatively to solve complex operational challenges.
- Apply strong domain knowledge in refining, petrochemical, and upstream production processes, including a clear understanding of key operating variables and economic drivers.
- Plan, execute, and review Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) activities for APO/APS solutions to ensure compliance with design specifications and functional requirements.
- Diagnose and resolve issues related to model configuration, process design, and plant operations, implementing corrective actions to achieve performance and optimization targets.
- Support the solution sales process by providing technical expertise, including delivering client presentations, preparing proposals, and contributing to scope definition, benefits analysis, cost estimation, and project scheduling.
- Travel onsite to customer sites for commissioning activities and support as needed.
Desired Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Petrochemical Engineering, Refinery Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering with at least 3 years of relevant experience; candidates with higher degrees are strongly preferred.
- Hands‑on experience with process simulation and optimization tools, with familiarity or working knowledge of APO/ROMeo or similar platforms highly desirable.
- Minimum 5+ years of experience developing, testing, or implementing process optimization and simulation applications in an online environment.
- Strong foundation in core chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, mass and energy balances, and transport phenomena.
- Working knowledge of project execution methodologies, including planning, scheduling, and delivery within defined scope, cost, and timelines.
- Proficiency in computer programming and scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, TCL or similar) to support model development and automation.
- Experience with open‑equation modeling frameworks and their application in industrial process optimization.
- Understanding of Model Predictive Control (MPC) concepts and exposure to MPC solutions from multiple vendors.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, particularly in refining, oil & gas, and petrochemical process environments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.
Benefits
Flex work hours, 20 days PTO rising to 25 with service, three paid volunteering days, primary and secondary parental leave, well‑being support, medical, dental, vision, and 401K. Benefits may vary by country but generally include comprehensive health and wellness packages.
Hybrid Working
Most roles are based at a local AVEVA office, with an expectation of being on‑site 50% of the working hours to support collaboration and connection. Some positions are fully office‑based depending on the nature of the work, and certain roles that support specific customers or markets may be remote.
Equal Opportunity & Accessibility
AVEVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to being an exemplary employer with an inclusive culture, developing a workplace environment where all employees are treated with dignity and respect. We value diversity and the expertise that people from different backgrounds bring to our business.
AVEVA provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify our recruiter. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case‑by‑case basis.