Apprentice Plant Operator: Launch Your Process Career

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 67,000 - 112,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stipend

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive training

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a major chemical manufacturer in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an Apprentice Plant Operator. You will learn to operate reactors, pumps, and distillation equipment, monitor process parameters, follow SOPs, and support SHE compliance in a busy plant.

The apprenticeship provides extensive hands-on training with accredited theoretical coursework, safety-focused culture, and clear progression paths toward senior operator roles in a dynamic industrial setting.

Qualifications

• Matric certificate with passes in Mathematics, Physical Science and English.
• Interest in chemical processes, plant operations, or process engineering.
• Willingness to work shifts, including weekends/public holidays.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Proactive approach and good problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate and monitor plant equipment (reactors, pumps, distillation columns).
• Assist in routine checks and measure process parameters (temperature, pressure, flow).
• Follow SOPs meticulously and monitor instrumentation/alarms.
• Support maintenance crews and perform basic maintenance tasks.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health and environmental regulations.

Skills

Observation skills

Problem solving

Communication skills

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Education

Matric with passes in Mathematics, Physical Science, and English

Job description

Placements24, on behalf of a major chemical manufacturer in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an Apprentice Plant Operator. You will learn to operate reactors, pumps, and distillation equipment, monitor process parameters, follow SOPs, and support SHE compliance in a busy plant.

The apprenticeship provides extensive hands-on training with accredited theoretical coursework, safety-focused culture, and clear progression paths toward senior operator roles in a dynamic industrial setting.