Chemical Engineer - Plant Operations

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 45,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 has a client in the industrial chemicals sector seeking a Chemical Engineer for our plant operations team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on safe, efficient operation, troubleshooting, optimizing production parameters, and implementing process improvements.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering with at least 3 years' experience in chemical plant operations, familiarity with process control systems, and a commitment to SHE excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in chemical plant operations or process engineering.
• Experience with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) principles is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support to the operations team, troubleshooting process deviations and equipment malfunctions.
• Monitor plant performance and identify opportunities for process optimization to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency.
• Assist in the implementation of process changes and improvements, including modifications to equipment and control strategies.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Develop and update operating procedures and training materials for plant personnel.
• Collect and analyze operational data to track KPIs and report on plant performance.
• Collaborate with maintenance, quality control, and safety departments to ensure smooth plant operations.
• Support plant start-ups, shutdowns, and emergency response activities.
• Ensure adherence to all environmental regulations and permit requirements.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the operations department.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Problem-solving

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Engineer to join their plant operations team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of our chemical manufacturing facilities. You will be involved in day-to-day operational support, troubleshooting process issues, optimizing production parameters, and implementing process improvements. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, practical experience in plant operations, and a commitment to safety and environmental best practices. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the operational success of a vital industrial facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

Provide technical support to the operations team, troubleshooting process deviations and equipment malfunctions. Monitor plant performance and identify opportunities for process optimization to improve yield, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency. Assist in the implementation of process changes and improvements, including modifications to equipment and control strategies. Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Develop and update operating procedures and training materials for plant personnel. Collect and analyze operational data to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on plant performance. Collaborate with maintenance, quality control, and safety departments to ensure smooth plant operations. Support plant start-ups, shutdowns, and emergency response activities. Ensure adherence to all environmental regulations and permit requirements. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the operations department. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering. Minimum of 3 years of experience in a chemical plant operations or process engineering role. Solid understanding of chemical engineering unit operations and process principles. Experience with process control systems and instrumentation. Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Commitment to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) excellence. Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team. Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) principles is advantageous. Ability to work effectively in a plant environment, including potentially hazardous areas. Knowledge of the industrial landscape in Queenstown, Eastern Cape is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting your experience and contributions, along with potential for annual performance bonuses. Comprehensive medical aid and a retirement fund are provided. Opportunities for professional development and on-the-job training are available. You will gain valuable experience in a vital industrial sector. Paid annual leave and sick leave benefits are provided. The company fosters a strong safety culture and a collaborative team environment. This role is based at our operational facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape .