Process and Automation Engineer

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. Process and Automation Engineer Responsibilities: • 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. Process and Automation Engineer Skills and Abilities: • 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. Process and Automation Engineer Education and Experience: • 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!