Chemical Engineer - Plant Operations Support

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonus

Training opportunities

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a hands-on Chemical Engineer to support an on-site industrial plant in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will troubleshoot process issues, drive continuous improvement, and collaborate with operations, maintenance and safety teams.

This role focuses on safe, efficient, and reliable plant operation, with responsibilities spanning process monitoring, data analysis, SOP development, and assisting in start-ups and enhancements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 2–5 years of experience in plant operations support or process engineering within the chemical industry.
• Solid understanding of chemical engineering principles including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Experience with process monitoring, data analysis, and basic simulation tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support to plant operations, troubleshooting process upsets and equipment malfunctions.
• Monitor key process variables and performance indicators, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Implement process changes and upgrades to enhance efficiency, yield, and safety.
• Participate in safety reviews, hazard analyses, and incident investigations.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and operating manuals.
• Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure effective equipment reliability and preventative maintenance programs.

Skills

Chemical engineering principles

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Process safety awareness

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major industrial chemical producer, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Engineer to support their operational plant in Nelspruit. This is an on-site position, offering the chance to work directly within a dynamic manufacturing environment in Mpumalanga. You will be responsible for providing technical expertise to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the plant. Your role will involve troubleshooting process issues, implementing continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborating closely with operations, maintenance, and safety teams. We are looking for a hands-on engineer with a strong understanding of chemical processes and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the stability and success of a critical industrial facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical support to plant operations, troubleshooting process upsets and equipment malfunctions.
• Monitor key process variables and performance indicators, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Implement process changes and upgrades to enhance efficiency, yield, and safety.
• Participate in safety reviews, hazard analyses, and incident investigations.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and operating manuals.
• Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure effective equipment reliability and preventative maintenance programs.
• Support the commissioning and start-up of new equipment and process modifications.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company EHS policies.
• Assist in the training of plant operators and junior engineering staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 2-5 years of experience in plant operations support or process engineering within the chemical industry.
• Solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Experience with process monitoring, data analysis, and basic simulation tools.
• Familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) principles is a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a plant environment.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance bonuses.
• Employees benefit from a stable work environment with opportunities for skill development and career progression within the company.
• Training on specific plant processes and equipment will be provided.
• Our client is committed to employee safety and well-being, promoting a strong safety culture.
• You will work in a key industrial region of Mpumalanga, contributing directly to the operational success of the plant in Nelspruit.
• Opportunities for advancement into more specialized engineering roles exist for high performers.
• The company values teamwork and provides a supportive atmosphere for its employees.