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Category
Process & Chemical
Work Pattern
Onshore (LNG plant sites with periodic assignments)
Reports To
Lead Process Engineer / LNG Project Director
Position Overview
The LNG Process Engineer specializes in the design, optimization, and technical support of liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing trains, including pretreatment, liquefaction, fractionation, and LNG storage and loading systems. This role is one of the most specialized in the oil and gas industry, with demand far outstripping supply due to the global expansion of LNG capacity.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and specify LNG liquefaction processes (C3MR, AP-X, DMR, SMR, or mixed refrigerant cycles) and evaluate technology selection
- Perform process simulation and optimization for LNG train operations using HYSYS, ProMax, or proprietary LNG tools
- Develop heat and material balances, P&IDs, and process descriptions for LNG facilities
- Specify and evaluate main cryogenic heat exchangers (MCHE), compressors, and refrigerant systems
- Conduct LNG process debottlenecking studies and capacity optimization
- Support LNG plant commissioning, start-up, and performance testing
- Monitor and optimize refrigerant composition and circulation for LNG train efficiency
- Specify end-flash, BOG (Boil-Off Gas) recovery, and LNG send-out systems
- Perform LNG storage and loading system engineering including tank design, pumps, and marine loading arms
- Support pre-treatment system engineering including acid gas removal, mercury removal, and dehydration
- Evaluate LNG technology offerings from major licensors and support technology selection for new projects
Qualifications
Required
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering (Master's strongly preferred)
- Certifications: Chartered Engineer (CEng/PE) preferred; OPITO BOSIET/FOET for FLNG assignments
- Experience: Minimum 10 years in process engineering with at least 5 years specifically in LNG facility design or operations
- Technical Skills: LNG liquefaction technology (C3MR, DMR, SMR), cryogenic process engineering, mixed refrigerant cycle design, LNG storage and handling, process simulation (HYSYS, ProMax), heat integration, boil-off gas management
Preferred
- Experience with FLNG (floating LNG) facility engineering
- Familiarity with multiple LNG technology licensor offerings
- Commissioning and start-up experience on LNG trains
- Small-scale and mid-scale LNG experience
Market Intelligence
$1,000–1,500/day
Shortage Level: Critical
Key Skills Gap: LNG process engineers with actual train design or operational experience are among the scarcest specialists in the industry. The narrowness of the LNG technology domain means that experienced LNG engineers command premium rates and are often booked months in advance.
Regions in Highest Demand: Qatar, USA (Gulf Coast), Mozambique, Australia, East Africa, Middle East
Demand Drivers: Qatar North Field Expansion (largest LNG project globally), Mozambique LNG developments, US LNG export terminal construction, FLNG new-build campaigns, energy security-driven LNG capacity additions post-Ukraine conflict