Chemical Engineer - Fertilizer Production

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Chemical Engineer - Fertilizer Production for our client in the agricultural chemicals sector. You will monitor and optimize ammonia synthesis, granulation and acid production processes, drive safety improvements, and support commissioning of new equipment.

Ideal candidates hold a BEng in Chemical Engineering with 2–5 years in chemical manufacturing, experience with DCS and process optimization, and a strong focus on safety, environmental

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• 2–5 years in a chemical manufacturing or process engineering role.
• Fertilizer production knowledge (ammonia, urea, phosphates, NPK) is highly advantageous.
• Familiarity with process control systems (DCS) and instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control chemical processes to ensure optimal production efficiency and product quality.
• Identify and implement improvements to process design, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Perform process calculations, including mass and energy balances, for new and existing equipment.
• Assist in the commissioning of new equipment and process modifications.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company safety standards.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to minimize downtime and maximize equipment reliability.
• Prepare technical reports on process performance and improvement recommendations.
• Participate in HAZOP studies and other process safety reviews.
• Support the training of operators and junior technical staff on process operations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Team work

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

DCS systems

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent industrial manufacturer specializing in agricultural chemicals, is seeking a diligent and technically adept Chemical Engineer - Fertilizer Production to join their facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is integral to the efficient and safe operation of their fertilizer production units. You will be involved in process monitoring, optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of chemical processes relevant to fertilizer manufacturing, such as ammonia synthesis, granulation, and acid production. This is an excellent opportunity for a chemical engineer looking to deepen their expertise in a vital sector of the chemical industry, contributing to agricultural productivity and sustainability. The position requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to maintaining high operational standards in a dynamic production environment. You will work closely with production teams to ensure seamless operations and product quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control chemical processes to ensure optimal production efficiency and product quality.
• Identify and implement improvements to process design, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Perform process calculations, including mass and energy balances, for new and existing equipment.
• Assist in the commissioning of new equipment and process modifications.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company safety standards.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to minimize downtime and maximize equipment reliability.
• Prepare technical reports on process performance and improvement recommendations.
• Participate in HAZOP studies and other process safety reviews.
• Support the training of operators and junior technical staff on process operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 2-5 years of experience in a chemical manufacturing or process engineering role.
• Specific experience or knowledge of fertilizer production processes (e.g., ammonia, urea, phosphates, NPK) is highly advantageous.
• Familiarity with process control systems (DCS) and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good understanding of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly.
• Awareness of industrial safety practices and environmental regulations.
• Proficiency in using standard engineering software and MS Office suite.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund. Opportunities for professional development and training are provided to enhance your skills within the fertilizer and chemical manufacturing sector. The role is based in the strategic industrial hub of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering proximity to key logistical networks. The company values its employees and promotes a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This is a great opportunity to grow your career in a critical industry.