PROCESS ENGINEER ANAEROBIC CO-DIGESTION

Location: South Africa Cape Town/Johannesburg

Status: Permanent

Reporting to: Technical Manager

Main Mission

Design, optimize, and oversee anaerobic co-digestion processes for the recovery of organic waste from agri-food industries, agriculture, livestock, and slaughterhouses. Ensure energy efficiency and environmental compliance while meeting safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Studies:

• Develop technical solutions for anaerobic digestion and biogas production in line with standards and regulations.
• Perform material and energy balances; size equipment such as digesters, pre-treatment systems, and biogas upgrading units.
• Prepare technical specifications and participate in procurement processes for equipment and subcontractors.

Project Execution & Monitoring:

• Supervise commissioning phases in coordination with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control systems, …).
• Ensure compliance with quality, schedule, and cost objectives.
• Oversee performance testing and optimize operational parameters.

Operation Expertise & Optimization:

• Act as a technical expert for plant operation, providing guidance to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Analyse operational data to improve biogas yield and process stability.
• Advise on best practices for plant management and troubleshooting.
• Conduct additional studies and propose process adjustments when operating conditions change (e.g., feedstock variability, seasonal impacts).

Innovation & Development:

• Identify and integrate innovative technologies to enhance biogas yield and digestate valorisation.
• Conduct feasibility studies and technical audits for new projects.

Skills & Profile

• Engineering degree in Process Engineering, Bioenergy, or equivalent.
• 5–10 years of experience in anaerobic digestion, wastewater treatment, or biogas projects.
• Strong knowledge of biological, thermal, and mechanical processes related to methanization.
• Proficiency with simulation and calculation tools (Aspen, ProSim, or similar).
• Ability to manage multidisciplinary projects and coordinate multiple stakeholders.
• Strong technical rigor, innovative mindset, and negotiation skills with clients and suppliers.