Chemical Engineer - Specialty Chemicals Production

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid coverage

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 client, a prominent manufacturer of specialty chemicals, seeks a Chemical Engineer for their Randburg production team. The role is hands-on in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, focusing on process monitoring, optimization, and safety compliance.

You will contribute to process improvements, SOP updates, and mentoring operators, with on-site work and potential for career growth within the organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• 2-4 years of chemical manufacturing or production experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separations.
• Experience with process monitoring and control systems (DCS/SCADA).
• Familiarity with SHE regulations and safe operating practices.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control chemical processes for optimal performance and product quality.
• Troubleshoot upsets and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Assist in process improvements and debottlenecking projects.
• Ensure compliance with SHE regulations and company policies.
• Develop and update SOPs for production processes.
• Collaborate with Quality Control to meet specifications.
• Assist in PHAs and risk assessments.
• Train and mentor junior operators and technicians.
• Manage small-scale capital projects related to production.

Skills

Process monitoring

DCS/SCADA experience

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

DCS/SCADA

Process control software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturer of specialty chemicals, is seeking a skilled Chemical Engineer to join their production team in **Randburg, Gauteng, ZA**. This role is central to ensuring the efficient, safe, and high-quality production of a diverse range of chemical products. The successful candidate will be involved in process monitoring, troubleshooting, continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring compliance with all operational and safety standards. This is a hands-on role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and contribution to key business objectives. The position requires full-time presence on-site.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control chemical processes to ensure optimal performance and product quality.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and waste.
• Participate in the design and implementation of process improvements and debottlenecking projects.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for production processes.
• Collaborate with the Quality Control team to ensure products meet specifications.
• Assist in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and risk assessments.
• Train and mentor junior operators and technicians on process operations and safety.
• Manage small-scale capital projects related to production improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 2-4 years of experience in a chemical manufacturing or production environment.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, and separation processes.
• Experience with process monitoring and control systems (DCS/SCADA).
• Knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in the chemical industry.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and basic data analysis.
• Experience in specialty chemicals production is a strong advantage.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Randburg** or commutable distances.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive annual salary, potential for performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and a retirement fund.
• The company fosters a strong safety culture and provides ample opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and career progression within the organization.
• Employees also benefit from a supportive team environment and access to modern facilities.