Senior Chemical Plant Engineer

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 97,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Retirement annuity with employer"s"

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid working model

Generous leave benefits

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Plant Engineer for our client’s operations in Welkom, South Africa. You will oversee maintenance, reliability, and capital project execution, driving safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across a chemical plant environment.

The role requires a strong foundation in chemical/mechanical engineering, hands-on leadership, and the ability to manage on-site and remote planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• 7+ years in chemical plant operations and engineering.
• Experience managing maintenance, reliability, and turnarounds.
• Strong knowledge of process equipment, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Familiar with HSE regulations and best practices.
• Ability to lead teams and communicate effectively.
• Experience with hybrid work environment and on-call duties.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage day-to-day operations of the chemical plant.
• Develop and implement preventative and predictive maintenance programs.
• Lead troubleshooting for process upsets and equipment failures.
• Manage capital projects from scope to construction oversight.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct regular plant inspections and safety audits.
• Collaborate to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians.
• Prepare technical reports, performance analyses, and recommendations.
• Optimize plant performance for energy efficiency, yield and cost reduction.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Maintenance planning

Troubleshooting

Process control

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading producer of industrial chemicals, is seeking an experienced Senior Chemical Plant Engineer to contribute to their operations in Welkom, Free State. This role is integral to maintaining and improving the reliability, efficiency, and safety of our chemical plant operations. You will be responsible for overseeing a range of engineering activities, from plant maintenance and troubleshooting to capital project execution and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in mechanical and process engineering principles, coupled with excellent leadership and project management skills. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between essential on-site presence for plant oversight and hands-on work, and remote flexibility for planning, reporting, and analysis. You will be a key contributor to ensuring the seamless operation of our vital production facilities in Welkom.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the chemical plant, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
• Develop and implement preventative and predictive maintenance programs for plant equipment.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for process upsets and equipment failures, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Manage capital projects, including scope definition, budgeting, design, procurement, and construction oversight.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
• Conduct regular plant inspections and safety audits.
• Collaborate with operational and technical teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians.
• Prepare technical reports, performance analyses, and recommendations for management.
• Optimize plant performance for energy efficiency, yield, and cost reduction.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical plant operations and engineering, with a focus on plant management or senior engineering roles.
• Proven experience in managing maintenance, reliability, and turnaround projects in a chemical manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of process equipment, instrumentation, and control systems (DCS/PLC).
• Demonstrated knowledge of HSE regulations and best practices in the chemical industry.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and software.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and influence teams.
• Experience with hybrid work environments, managing tasks both on-site and remotely.
• Ability to perform on-call duties as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid and life insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.
• Retirement annuity with employer contributions.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• A hybrid working model offering flexibility.
• Access to modern plant facilities and equipment in Welkom .
• Generous annual leave and sick leave benefits.
• Employee assistance program for well-being support.
• Company-provided tools and resources for efficient work.