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Refinery Process Simulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design, develop, maintain, and support new and existing capabilities for modeling, simulation, design, and rating of chemicals and refining processes. * Keep current with new and developing ...

Process Modeling Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

We're reimagining how minerals are sourced, refined, and optimized by combining deep industrial ... Develop and maintain process simulation databases, ensuring consistency and traceability between ...

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Refinery Process Simulation information

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$23.5K

$42.4K

$57K

How much do refinery process simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for refinery process simulation in the United States is $42,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Refinery Process Simulation vs Refinery Process Engineer?

AspectRefinery Process SimulationRefinery Process Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and analyzing computer models of refinery processesDesigning, optimizing, and managing refinery operations
Required SkillsProcess modeling, simulation software, chemical engineering fundamentalsProcess design, operational troubleshooting, project management
Work EnvironmentSoftware labs, engineering offices, collaborative teamsRefinery plants, operational sites, engineering teams
CertificationsProcess simulation software certifications, chemical engineering degreePE license, chemical engineering degree

Refinery Process Simulation specialists focus on creating detailed models to analyze refinery processes, while Refinery Process Engineers are involved in designing and optimizing actual refinery operations. Both roles require chemical engineering knowledge, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in refinery process simulation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in refinery process simulation often encounter challenges such as integrating complex process data from various sources, ensuring model accuracy, and keeping simulations up to date with operational changes. Collaboration with engineers, operators, and IT specialists is crucial to validate models and implement improvements. Staying current with the latest simulation software and industry best practices can help address these challenges, as can strong communication skills to translate simulation results into actionable recommendations for plant operations.

What is refinery process simulation?

Refinery process simulation is the use of specialized software to model and analyze the chemical and physical processes that occur within a petroleum refinery. This simulation helps engineers optimize operations, predict plant performance, troubleshoot issues, and evaluate changes before implementing them in real life. By creating digital models of various units like distillation columns, reactors, and heat exchangers, refineries can improve efficiency, safety, and profitability while reducing operational risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Refinery Process Simulation, and why are they important?

To excel in Refinery Process Simulation, a strong background in chemical engineering principles, process modeling, and typically a relevant engineering degree is essential. Proficiency with simulation software such as Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, or Honeywell UniSim, as well as familiarity with data analysis tools, is commonly required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These abilities ensure accurate simulation, optimization of refinery operations, and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to enhance safety and profitability.
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Simulation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Locum Tenens, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,416 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Sr Engineer - Process Simulation

Sr Engineer - Process Simulation

Aspen Technology, Inc.

Bedford, MA • On-site

$109K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


AspenTech rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 186 rated software companies


Job description

The driving force behind our success has always been the people of AspenTech. What drives us, is our aspiration, our desire and ambition to keep pushing the envelope, overcoming any hurdle, challenging the status quo to continually find a better way. You will experience these qualities of passion, pride and aspiration in many ways - from a rich set of career development programs to support of community service projects to social events that foster fun and relationship building across our global community.
The Role
We are looking for an experienced chemical engineer with experience in developing software for the modeling and simulation of chemicals and petroleum refining processes. As a Senior Engineer in our Technology group you will develop AspenTech's process simulation product that will help drive our Asset Optimization strategy.
Your Impact
  • Design, develop, maintain, and support new and existing capabilities for modeling, simulation, design, and rating of chemicals and refining processes.
  • Keep current with new and developing technologies as they appear in industry and academia, and assist in determining the feasibility of implementing new technologies.
  • Provide technical support to product management, product marketing, services, and customer and business support on customer activities.
  • Work with customers to understand their engineering work processes and workflow requirements.
  • Collaborate with product managers, product designers and developers to develop detailed product requirements and specifications for innovative process engineering products.

What You'll Need
  • Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering or related fields (PhD preferred).
  • 5+ years of industrial and/or academic experience in the development of software for modeling, simulation and design of chemicals and refining processes.
  • Strong background in thermodynamic modeling and numerical methods.
  • Experience in dynamic modeling and process control is a plus.
  • Strong computer programming and software development experience, with specific experience in one or more of these languages: C++, C and C#.
  • Experience using software tools for process simulation, design, rating, and costing - experience with AspenTech products is a plus.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, writing and presentation skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner.

The salary range for this role is $109,600.00 - $137,000.00. This range represents what we in good faith believe is the range possible for base compensation for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range based on several factors. This range may be modified in the future. This role is also eligible for bonus or variable incentive pay. Additionally, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, charitable giveback day, medical/dental/vision insurance, and retirement benefits to eligible employees.