Lead Refining Process Optimization Engineer
Role: Lead Refining Process Optimization EngineerLocation: Houston, TX, USRole Overview:We are seeking a Sr Blending Optimization Engineer (Lead Refining Process Optimization Engineer) to drive online blending optimization, fuel product formulations, and advanced process control algorithms in Houston, TX. In this high-impact technical role, you will bridge refinery operations, advanced process control (APC), and commercial trading teams to optimize real-time fuel blend recipes, maximize product margin capture, and ensure strict compliance with finished product quality standards.Key Responsibilities:Blending Control & Model Deployment: Develop, tune, validate, and deploy multivariable predictive control (MPC) and non-linear optimization models for multi-stream fuel blending operations.Blend Economics & Recipe Optimization: Evaluate gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and bunker fuel component streams to formulate optimal blend recipes that maximize refinery economic margins.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with refinery operations, laboratory quality managers, process engineers, and commercial supply/trading teams to update dynamic blend property targets based on market economics.Analyzer & Instrumentation Support: Troubleshoot, calibrate, and maintain online blend property analyzers, automated blend header valves, and flow measurement instrumentation.Model Maintenance & Audits: Lead periodic technical audits, perform routine blend model recalibrations, and deliver training to board operators and process control engineers.Regulatory & Quality Compliance: Ensure all finished fuel blends strictly adhere to internal quality specifications and external regulatory/environmental mandates (e.g., EPA RVP, Tier 3 sulfur limits, ASTM fuel standards).Required Skills & Qualifications:Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, or a closely related discipline.Experience: 6+ years of process engineering, advanced process control (APC), or blending optimization experience within the oil refining or petrochemical sector.Software Tech Stack: Direct, hands-on experience with industry-standard blend optimization platforms (e.g., Haverly HBlend, Aspen Tech Aspen Blend, Honeywell BLEND, or Schneider Electric/Invensys).Domain Expertise: Deep understanding of refinery stream properties, blending non-linearities, ASTM test methods, linear programming (LP), and online analytical instrumentation.Core Competencies: Strong analytical problem-solving skills, operational troubleshooting capability, and effective cross-functional communication abilities.More About the Opportunity:We offer a highly competitive compensation package featuring a strong baseline salary, annual bonus potential, robust health and wellness coverage (medical, dental, vision), a 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching, paid time off, and continuous career development with high technical visibility across corporate refining operations.Equal Opportunity Employer:We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building and maintaining a diverse, inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.Apply Now!