Junior Chemical Engineer - Process Optimization

Placements24; O Mente; On-site; EUR 15,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Chemical Engineer to join our client’s production support team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This entry-level role focuses on process optimization, troubleshooting, and hands-on experience with chemical processes under experienced engineers.

The ideal candidate has a strong academic foundation in chemical engineering and a proactive approach to learning in a manufacturing setting, contributing to safety, efficiency, and reliability improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Understanding of core chemical engineering principles (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer).

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in analyzing process data to identify opportunities for optimization.
• Support troubleshooting efforts for production issues, helping to identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Monitor key process parameters and equipment performance.
• Participate in process safety reviews and assist in documenting safety procedures.
• Assist in developing and updating process documentation, including P&IDs and operating manuals.
• Conduct small-scale experiments or pilot tests to evaluate process modifications.
• Help ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Prepare reports on process performance and improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with production operators and maintenance personnel.

Skills

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

P&IDs

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a growing chemical manufacturing company, is seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Junior Chemical Engineer to join their production support team. This entry-level position is based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and offers an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate to gain hands‑on experience in process optimization, troubleshooting, and production support. You will work under the guidance of experienced engineers to improve the efficiency, safety, and reliability of our chemical processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic foundation in chemical engineering principles and a keen interest in applying this knowledge in a practical manufacturing setting. This role is crucial for supporting our ongoing efforts to enhance operational performance and maintain high product quality standards. We are looking for a proactive learner eager to develop their career in chemical engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in analyzing process data to identify opportunities for optimization.
• Support troubleshooting efforts for production issues, helping to identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Monitor key process parameters and equipment performance.
• Participate in process safety reviews and assist in documenting safety procedures.
• Assist in developing and updating process documentation, including P&IDs and operating manuals.
• Conduct small-scale experiments or pilot tests to evaluate process modifications.
• Help ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Prepare reports on process performance and improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with production operators and maintenance personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Strong understanding of core chemical engineering principles (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass