Chemical Operator

AECI Limited; Guadeloupe; On-site; EUR 29,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

AECI Limited is seeking a Plant Operator for our Nitrates plant to safely operate chemical processing equipment and monitor production processes. You will ensure product quality, record operational data, and support start-ups and shutdowns according to SOPs.

You will uphold OHSA and internal safety standards, participate in risk assessments and safety meetings, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives while collaborating with maintenance teams and shift personnel.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric (Mathematics and Physical Science preferred).
• NQF Level 4 Chemical Operations qualification (advantageous/required depending on grading).
• Relevant experience in a chemical processing or manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor chemical processing equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Control process parameters to ensure optimal plant performance and product quality.
• Conduct plant start-ups, shutdowns, and changeovers as required.
• Perform routine inspections and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Report process deviations and elevate abnormalities timeously.

Skills

Strong safety awareness

Technical and process understanding

Attention to detail

Problem-solving ability

Ability to work shifts

Team collaboration

Accountability and reliability

Education

Grade 12 / Matric

NQF Level 4 Chemical Operations qualification

Tools

DCS/SCADA

Job description

Job Purpose

To safely and efficiently operate chemical processing equipment within the Nitrates plant, ensuring that production targets, product quality standards, and Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) compliance requirements are consistently met. The role contributes to continuous improvement initiatives and supports operational excellence within the Global Operations Nitrates division.

Key Responsibilities

• 1. Plant Operations
  • Operate and monitor chemical processing equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Control process parameters to ensure optimal plant performance and product quality.
  • Conduct plant start-ups, shutdowns, and changeovers as required.
  • Perform routine inspections and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
  • Report process deviations and elevate abnormalities timeously.
• 2. Safety, Health & Environmental Compliance
  • Adhere strictly to OHSA regulations, company safety standards, and site-specific procedures.
  • Participate in risk assessments, toolbox talks, and safety meetings.
  • Identify hazards and implement corrective or preventive actions.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental standards, waste management procedures, and emissions controls.
  • Actively support zero-harm and incident-free operations.
• 3. Quality Assurance
  • Ensure products meet required specifications and quality standards.
  • Conduct sampling and basic laboratory checks where required.
  • Record operational data accurately and maintain production logs.
• 4. Maintenance Support
  • Perform first-line maintenance and basic equipment care.
  • Report mechanical or instrumentation issues to Maintenance teams.
  • Participate in planned shutdowns and statutory inspections.
• 5. Continuous Improvement
  • Contribute to operational efficiency initiatives and cost-saving measures.
  • Participate in improvement projects within the Nitrates division.
  • Support 5S, Lean, or other operational excellence programs.
• 6. Teamwork & Communication
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, maintenance teams, and shift personnel.
  • Participate in shift handovers ensuring accurate transfer of operational information.
  • Support training and mentoring of junior operators where applicable.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric (Mathematics and Physical Science preferred)
• NQF Level 4 Chemical Operations qualification (advantageous/required depending on grading)
• Relevant experience in a chemical processing or manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of process control systems (DCS/SCADA advantageous)

Competencies

• Strong safety awareness
• Technical and process understanding
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving ability
• Ability to work shifts
• Team collaboration
• Accountability and reliability

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