Process and Automation Engineer

Overview

Clayton Services is searching for a Process and Automation Engineer to join a thriving company in Houston, Texas.

Job Type: Direct Hire

Pay Rate: $150,000 -$170,000 per year.

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO, and more.

• Design, evaluate, and optimize chemical processes used in petrochemical production.
• Monitor plant performance and analyze process data to improve yields, reduce waste, and enhance energy efficiency.
• Perform process simulations using Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, or similar software.
• Conduct piping system analysis using Pipe-Flo to evaluate flow rates, pressure drops, and pump sizing.
• Develop, update, and maintain Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Support mechanical and piping system design using AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor, including equipment layouts and process skids.
• Troubleshoot process and control issues and lead root cause analysis with cross-functional teams.
• Lead or support Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), HAZOP studies, and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, safety, environmental, electrical, and instrumentation teams to ensure process integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Support plant startups, shutdowns, and turnarounds with technical guidance.
• Assist with commissioning and validation of new equipment, automation, and control systems.
• Recommend and implement process modifications, debottlenecking efforts, and technology upgrades.
• Collaborate with automation and controls teams to develop control strategies, instrumentation selection, and PLC/DCS integration.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and other applicable safety and environmental regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strong understanding of petrochemical unit operations including distillation, cracking, reforming, and heat exchange.
• Working knowledge of industry codes and standards including API, ASME, and NFPA.
• Demonstrated experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) programs.
• Solid understanding of process control, automation systems, and instrumentation.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, operations, maintenance, and automation disciplines.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a process engineering or automation-focused role within the petrochemical or energy industry.
• Experience with process simulation tools such as Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD, or PRO/II.
• Experience with Pipe Flow software, AutoCAD, and Autodesk Inventor.
• Experience supporting or interfacing with PLC/DCS-based automation systems is preferred.

Process and Automation Engineer. Immediate need. Apply today!