Chemical Engineer – Processing Systems Design Manager - Buildings Business Unit

At Meinhardt UK and Ireland, we are part of a global multi-disciplinary consultancy delivering cutting-edge engineering and project management services. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, we provide integrated design solutions for some of the most complex and high-performance buildings and infrastructure globally.

To support the growing demand for process and systems engineering expertise, we are seeking a Chemical Engineer – Processing Systems to join our London office. This role will support a range of UK and international projects involving critical systems, industrial processes, and complex building infrastructure.

Primary Responsibilities

Project Role

The Chemical Engineer – Processing Systems will be responsible for the design, analysis, and optimisation of chemical and fluid-based systems within a variety of built environment projects. These may include cleanrooms, pharmaceutical facilities, advanced manufacturing plants, laboratories, energy centres, or specialist HVAC and filtration systems. You will play a key role in delivering process solutions that meet stringent performance, safety, and sustainability requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Process Design and Analysis

• Develop and design chemical and fluid processing systems including process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment specifications.
• Conduct process simulations, mass and energy balances, and system optimisations.
• Specify and evaluate pumps, heat exchangers, filtration units, piping, valves, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Ensure designs meet operational, regulatory, and safety requirements for specialised environments (e.g., GMP, ISO cleanroom standards).

Technical Coordination

• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, architectural, and environmental engineers to ensure integrated system design.
• Provide technical input across all project stages – from feasibility and concept through to detailed design, procurement, installation, and commissioning.
• Support the development of control and automation strategies for process systems.

Project Delivery

• Assist in planning and delivering high-quality engineering solutions in line with project budgets and timelines.
• Support technical reviews, HAZOP/HAZID studies, and risk assessments.
• Participate in on-site inspections, commissioning support, and troubleshooting of installed systems.

Client and Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with clients, contractors, and equipment vendors to ensure technical alignment and project success.
• Attend design meetings, workshops, and site visits as required.
• Present clear, professional documentation and technical reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Innovation and Sustainability

• Promote the integration of sustainable design principles and low-energy technologies within process systems.
• Explore and apply emerging technologies such as heat recovery systems, water reuse, and carbon capture as appropriate to project needs.
• Support research and innovation initiatives within the processing systems and engineering team.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Chemical Engineering (MEng/BEng) or equivalent; postgraduate qualifications advantageous.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or working toward Chartership (IChemE preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in chemical/process systems design in the built environment, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, or energy sectors.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process safety.
• Familiarity with relevant codes and standards (e.g., ISO, ASME, GEP, GMP, PED, ATEX).
• Proficiency in process simulation tools such as Aspen HYSYS, ChemCAD, or equivalent.
• Experience with multidisciplinary coordination and digital design tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) is a plus.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally as required.

Key Attributes

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work across teams and adapt to varied project types.
• Keen interest in sustainable engineering and process innovation.

Company benefits include

• Annual Leave of 20 days plus bank holidays
• Three days of additional holiday at Christmas. This is non-contractual, the dates are set by the company and these three days are not counted in your annual leave allowance within your contract.
• Life Assurance and Payment Protection Cover
• Group Income Protection scheme, including access to Legal & General health and wellbeing services
• Four company socials per year
• Professional membership cost covered (one per year at this level, two per year once associate level)
• Birthday leave – an additional day off on your birthday (to be taken in the month of your birthday)
• Alternate breakfast/lunch provided on Friday’s

Meinhardt (UK) Ltd reserves the right to alter the content of this job description to reflect changes to the job, without altering the general character or level of responsibility.

Location London (international travel will be required)

Department Buildings Business Unit

Job type Chemical Engineer – Processing Systems Design Manager