Chemical Plant Engineer: Lead Ops & Safety

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid benefits

Pension fund membership

Professional development and training

Stable employment

Challenging and engaging work

Career progression opportunities

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Plant Engineer for an Upington-based role focused on safe, efficient operation and continuous improvement of a chemical processing plant.

You will oversee daily plant activities, drive process optimization, ensure regulatory SHE compliance, and lead small capital projects while coordinating with operations and maintenance teams. A strong troubleshooting mindset and commitment to excellence are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering with chemical plant experience.
• At least 4 years of chemical plant operations, maintenance, or process engineering.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, equipment, and plant safety.
• Experience with process troubleshooting and problem-solving.
• Ability to manage projects and coordinate with teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operation and maintenance of chemical plant equipment and processes.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies.
• Ensure SHE (Safety, Health, and Environmental) compliance.
• Manage minor capital projects including scope, vendors, and execution.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Develop SOPs and maintenance schedules.
• Collaborate with operators, maintenance staff and management.
• Monitor performance metrics and report KPIs.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or quality.
• Support continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Skills

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Project management

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Plant Engineer for an Upington-based role focused on safe, efficient operation and continuous improvement of a chemical processing plant.

You will oversee daily plant activities, drive process optimization, ensure regulatory SHE compliance, and lead small capital projects while coordinating with operations and maintenance teams. A strong troubleshooting mindset and commitment to excellence are essential.