Senior Chemical Engineer - Project Management

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 130,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Life insurance

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for our Queenstown operation in the Eastern Cape. You will lead multi-disciplinary projects from conception to completion, ensuring on-time delivery, budget control, and adherence to safety and environmental standards.

The role demands 8+ years in chemical engineering with at least 4 years in project management, capital projects experience, and strong leadership. On-site position with opportunities for certification and career growth.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in chemical engineering, with at least 4 years in project management.
• Proven capital project experience in an industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of process design, plant operations, and safety management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and closure of chemical engineering projects.
• Develop detailed project plans including scope, objectives, deliverables, resources and timelines.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures and ensure cost control.
• Oversee design, procurement, installation and commissioning of process equipment.
• Ensure all projects comply with safety, environmental and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, operations, procurement) and external stakeholders.
• Identify and manage project risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Monitor project progress and provide regular status reports to senior management.
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration among project team members.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within project execution processes.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and project team members.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Chemical engineering

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the industrial manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer with strong project management capabilities for their facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is essential for overseeing and executing complex chemical engineering projects from conception through to completion. You will be responsible for project planning, resource allocation, budget management, and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope, while adhering to the highest standards of safety and quality. The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record in managing multi-disciplinary projects, excellent leadership skills, and a deep understanding of chemical processes and plant operations. Your expertise will be crucial in driving efficiency, mitigating risks, and ensuring the successful implementation of new technologies and plant upgrades. This is a demanding but rewarding position for a seasoned professional looking to make a significant impact on a large scale.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and closure of chemical engineering projects.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, objectives, deliverables, resources, and timelines.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure cost control.
• Oversee the design, procurement, installation, and commissioning of process equipment.
• Ensure all projects comply with stringent safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate with internal teams (engineering, operations, procurement) and external stakeholders.
• Identify and manage project risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Monitor project progress and provide regular status reports to senior management.
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration among project team members.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within project execution processes.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and project team members.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical engineering, with at least 4 years in project management roles.
• Proven experience managing capital projects in an industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of chemical process design, plant operations, and safety management.
• Excellent knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and techniques (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP).
• Proficiency in project scheduling software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
• Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to analyze complex technical issues and develop practical solutions.
• Experience working on-site in demanding industrial environments.
• Must be able to reside and work full-time in the Queenstown, Eastern Cape area.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, an annual performance bonus, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a retirement annuity, and life insurance. The company provides ample opportunities for professional development, including project management certifications and technical training. Employees have access to modern facilities and resources. Our client is committed to fostering a safe and productive work environment, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being and career growth. This role offers the chance to lead impactful projects and contribute significantly to the company's operational success and strategic expansion in the Eastern Cape . Join a company that values expertise and rewards dedication with significant career opportunities.

• a highly competitive salary
• an annual performance bonus
• medical aid
• a retirement annuity
• life insurance