Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Operations

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional growth & on-the-job培训

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a Chemical Engineer to support and optimize petrochemical processes within the operations team. You will troubleshoot daily issues, monitor processes, and drive small-scale improvement projects to enhance reliability and safety.

The role requires a solid foundation in chemical engineering and a passion for operational excellence, with opportunities to gain broad experience in a fast-paced industrial environment and contribute to essential chemical

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• 2–5 years of experience in chemical plant operations or process engineering.
• Familiarity with petrochemical processes and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations and analyze performance data to identify areas for improvement.
• Provide technical support to the operations team for process-related issues.
• Conduct root cause analyses for operational upsets and recommend corrective actions.
• Assist in developing and executing process modifications and debottlenecking projects.
• Prepare reports on plant performance, safety incidents, and environmental compliance.
• Ensure adherence to operational procedures, safety guidelines and environmental regulations.
• Participate in PHAs and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with maintenance and project teams to ensure seamless operational support.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and process upgrades.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Data analysis

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Chemical Engineer to contribute to their operations team in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role focuses on supporting and optimizing existing petrochemical processes, ensuring safe and efficient plant operations, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. You will be involved in day-to-day troubleshooting, process monitoring, and the implementation of small-scale projects aimed at enhancing performance and reliability. The successful candidate will have a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles and a passion for operational excellence. This is an excellent opportunity to gain extensive experience within a fast-paced industrial environment and contribute to the production of essential chemical products.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations and analyze performance data to identify areas for improvement.
• Provide technical support to the operations team for process-related issues.
• Conduct root cause analyses for operational upsets and recommend corrective actions.
• Assist in the development and execution of process modifications and debottlenecking projects.
• Prepare reports on plant performance, safety incidents, and environmental compliance.
• Ensure adherence to all operational procedures, safety guidelines, and environmental regulations.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with maintenance and project teams to ensure seamless operational support.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and process upgrades.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• 2-5 years of relevant experience in chemical plant operations or process engineering.
• Familiarity with petrochemical processes and equipment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of process safety principles and environmental regulations.
• Proficiency in data analysis and process monitoring techniques.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a challenging operational environment.
• Experience with simulation software is a plus.
• Commitment to a safe and sustainable working environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive starting salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and provident fund, and ample opportunities for professional growth and on-the-job training. While the role is based in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**, the company embraces a flexible approach to work, and this position may offer occasional remote work opportunities depending on project needs and operational demands. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment, continuous learning initiatives, and the chance to work with advanced technologies in a vital industry.