Chemical Engineer - Petrochemical Refining Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks an experienced Chemical Engineer to join our client’s operational team. The role focuses on safe, efficient operation of petrochemical refining facilities, with emphasis on process control, optimization and reliability.

You will lead monitoring of key process variables, support PHAs and safety inspections, and collaborate with maintenance and laboratories to drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in chemical plant operations.
• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Experience with hydrocarbon processing and process control systems.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control process variables to optimize refining units.
• Troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Perform process calculations, simulations, and analyses to support decisions.
• Conduct safety inspections and PHAs to ensure safety compliance.
• Assist in minor capital projects and process modification studies.
• Collaborate with maintenance, laboratory, and management to resolve challenges.
• Develop and update operating procedures and technical documentation.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and optimization opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability policies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Process optimization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

DCS

PSM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the energy and petrochemical sector, is seeking an experienced Chemical Engineer to join their operational team based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This on-site role is integral to the continuous and safe operation of their petrochemical refining facilities. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in process engineering principles, with practical experience in hydrocarbon processing, separation technologies, and plant optimization. You will be responsible for ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and safety of the refining units, contributing to the production of essential fuels and chemical feedstocks. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated engineer to advance their career within a vital industry in a beautiful coastal location.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control process variables to ensure optimal performance of refining units (e.g., distillation, cracking, reforming).
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to maintain production targets.
• Perform process calculations, simulations, and analyses to support operational decisions and improvement initiatives.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Assist in the management of minor capital projects and process modification studies.
• Collaborate with maintenance, laboratory, and management teams to resolve operational challenges and improve overall plant performance.
• Develop and update operating procedures and technical documentation.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for optimization.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company sustainability policies.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering. A minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical plant operations, preferably within petrochemical refining or similar industries. Solid understanding of hydrocarbon processing units, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics. Experience with process control systems (DCS) and troubleshooting. Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) principles and practices. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly. Willingness to work on-site in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , and potentially irregular hours as operational needs dictate. Prior experience in the Mossel Bay industrial area is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund, potential for performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for further training and career progression within the organization. This on-site role in the scenic Western Cape provides a stable and rewarding career path.