Linear Programming (LP) Engineer

Overview

We are seeking a Linear Programming (LP) Engineer with extensive hands-on expertise in refinery optimization and economics to join our Operation Engineering Solutions Department (OESD).

OESD provides specialized and timely operations and process engineering support to all process technologies operated in both wholly-owned and affiliates’ refining and chemicals operating facilities, collectively known as Saudi Aramco Global Manufacturing.

As a Linear Programming (LP) Engineer, you will be responsible for developing, updating, and running LP models for existing and new refineries, conducting rigorous simulation and back casting, performing technical and economic evaluation of projects and opportunities, and providing expert technical advisory support to refinery management and staff.

Key Responsibilities

As the successful candidate you will be required to perform the following:

• Develop, update, and run LP models for existing and new refineries using PIMS software. Optimize their operation and configuration to maximize net cash margin, identifying and evaluating margin improvement opportunities.
• Conduct rigorous simulation and back casting using Aspen HYSYS software. Compare simulation results with actual refinery performance, analyze gaps and deviations, and propose corrective actions to improve model accuracy and reliability.
• Perform comprehensive technical and economic evaluations of projects and opportunities using NPV, IRR, and other financial metrics. Support decision-making processes from screening through closure, prioritizing projects against investment criteria and downstream strategy.
• Provide expert technical advisory support to refinery management and staff on LP and optimization matters, including crude selection, product slate, process units, and operational constraints. Effectively communicate LP results and recommendations, ensuring successful implementation and monitoring of actions.
• Coordinate and collaborate with other engineers, analysts, and stakeholders to ensure alignment and integration of LP models and objectives.
• Validate and calibrate LP models using historical data and refinery test runs. Ensure models reflect current and future operating conditions and constraints. Document and communicate model changes to relevant stakeholders.
• Support the development and maintenance of the global MPIMS model, optimizing crude allocation and product slate for the global manufacturing network.
• Participate in the LP gatekeeping process for wholly-owned refineries and the global MPIMS model. Review and approve LP model changes, providing feedback and recommendations as needed.
• Conduct training and coaching sessions for refinery LP engineers and other users. Develop and update LP manuals and guidelines, ensuring compliance with LP standards and procedures.

Minimum Requirements:

As a successful candidate you will hold a:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related specialization. An advanced degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of hands-on LP experience in refining or gas plants, with at least 10 years focused on LP modeling, optimization, and economics.
• Demonstrated proficiency in PIMS and Aspen HYSYS software, as well as other relevant tools and standards.
• Proven track record of applying LP models to drive significant improvements in refinery operations and profitability, with specific examples of achievements.
• Extensive knowledge of refining processes and economics, as well as global crude and product markets and trends.
• Experience in developing and running LP models for complex and integrated refineries, including scenario analysis and sensitivity studies.
• Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to communicate complex information effectively to various stakeholders.
• Excellent presentation and reporting skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong initiative, creativity, integrity, and leadership qualities, with a track record of identifying and implementing innovative optimization solutions.