Chemical Engineer - Project Execution

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Career advancement opportunities

Safe and engaging workplace

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Engineer to lead process design and implementation in our manufacturing facilities on site.

You will develop PFDs and P&IDs, perform mass and energy balances, run process simulations, and drive safety and environmental compliance with operations, production, and maintenance teams. The role emphasizes hands-on problem solving and collaboration in a growing industrial environment.

Responsibilities

• Execute chemical engineering projects from conceptual design through commissioning and handover.
• Develop and review Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform process design calculations including mass and energy balances, equipment sizing, and hydraulic calculations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of new processes and equipment.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical support to the production team.
• Manage project schedules, costs, and resources to ensure timely and within-budget completion.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and project documentation.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction.

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a dedicated Chemical Engineer to join our industrial operations based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This role is crucial for the successful execution of projects related to chemical process design and implementation within our manufacturing facilities. You will be directly involved in ensuring that new and existing processes meet stringent operational, safety, and environmental standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles and a practical approach to problem-solving in a hands‑on industrial setting. This position requires a commitment to on‑site collaboration with engineering, production, and maintenance teams to drive project success and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute chemical engineering projects, from conceptual design through to commissioning and handover.
• Develop and review Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform process design calculations, including mass and energy balances, equipment sizing, and hydraulic calculations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of new processes and equipment.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical support to the production team.
• Manage project schedules, costs, and resources to ensure timely and within-budget project completion.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and project documentation.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• 3-5 years of experience in chemical engineering, with a focus on project execution and process design.
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as Aspen HYSYS or Aspen Plus.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering fundamentals, including thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with P&ID development and interpretation.
• Knowledge of process safety principles and risk assessment techniques.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the vicinity of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for career advancement within a growing industrial sector.
• You will gain valuable hands‑on experience in project execution within a dynamic operational environment.
• Our client is committed to providing a safe and engaging workplace, fostering professional development and teamwork.
• Contribute to impactful projects and grow your career in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .