Chemical Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus scheme

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid leave

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Chemical Plant Operations Manager to lead its George, Western Cape facility. You will oversee production, safety, maintenance and logistics, directing a team of professionals to achieve production targets while adhering to environmental regulations.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in Chemical or Industrial Engineering, 10+ years in chemical operations with 5+ in management, and a track record of cost reduction and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or Industrial Engineering.
• Master’s degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years in chemical plant operations, with 5+ in management.
• Experience in large-scale chemical manufacturing, preferably agricultural chemicals.
• Strong knowledge of safety management systems and ISO standards.
• Proven track record of improving efficiency and reducing costs.
• Excellent leadership and decision-making skills.
• Experience with process control and automation is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily plant operations, including production, quality control, maintenance, and logistics.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production, cost, and safety objectives.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage the plant budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Oversee maintenance and repair programs to ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
• Implement continuous improvement programs such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.
• Collaborate with supply chain, sales, and R&D to ensure seamless operations.
• Investigate and resolve operational issues and incidents promptly.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Safety management

Process optimization

Communication

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

Process control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the agricultural chemicals sector, is actively seeking an experienced and results-oriented Chemical Plant Operations Manager to lead their facility in George . This leadership position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of plant operations, ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective production of high-quality chemical products. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical manufacturing processes, robust leadership skills, and a proven ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives. You will manage a dedicated team of professionals, foster a culture of safety excellence, and be accountable for meeting production targets while adhering to environmental regulations. This is a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact within a growing organization located in the picturesque Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily plant operations, including production, quality control, maintenance, and logistics.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production, cost, and safety objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage the plant budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Oversee maintenance and repair programs to ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
• Implement and champion continuous improvement programs, such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles.
• Collaborate with supply chain, sales, and R&D departments to ensure seamless operations and product delivery.
• Investigate and resolve operational issues and incidents promptly and effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale chemical manufacturing processes, preferably in agricultural chemicals.
• Strong knowledge of safety management systems, environmental regulations, and quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001).
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency, cost reduction, and continuous improvement.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Experience with process control systems and automation is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary, an attractive performance-based bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and paid leave.
• Our client values employee well-being and provides opportunities for professional development, training, and advancement within the organization.
• The role is based in beautiful George , offering a desirable lifestyle in the Garden Route.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.

Join our client and contribute to a vital industry.