Chemical Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Company car/allowance

Relocation assistance

Career advancement

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp, South Africa, seeks a Chemical Plant Operations Manager to lead our client's facility. You will oversee production, maintenance, safety, and environmental compliance while driving performance and profitability.

The ideal candidate has a Chemical Engineering degree, an MBA is a plus, 10+ years in chemical plant ops with 5+ in management, and a track record of large-scale facility leadership, cost control, and Lean/Six Sigma improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field required.
• MBA considered a plus for leadership and strategy responsibilities.
• Experience in safety management systems and environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day plant operations including production scheduling and workflow management.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental regulations and company policies.
• Develop and manage the plant budget, identify cost-saving opportunities while safeguarding safety and quality.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Implement a robust preventive maintenance program to minimize downtime and protect asset integrity.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Safety management

Lean/Six Sigma

Environmental compliance

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

MBA (plus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly experienced and results-oriented Chemical Plant Operations Manager to lead their facility in Klerksdorp . This senior leadership role is responsible for the overall management of plant operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable production of chemicals. You will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including production, maintenance, safety, and environmental compliance, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the North West facility. The successful candidate will be a decisive leader with a deep understanding of chemical plant operations and a commitment to driving performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the chemical plant, including production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow management.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Develop and manage the plant's operational budget, identifying cost‑saving opportunities without compromising safety or quality.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing operations team, including production supervisors and operators.
• Implement and manage a robust preventative maintenance program to minimize downtime and ensure asset integrity.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma to enhance productivity and efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related technical field; an MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale chemical production facilities.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, safety management systems (e.g., OSHA PSM), and environmental compliance.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Financial acumen and experience in budget management and cost control.

Benefits

• Highly attractive base salary and significant annual bonus potential.
• Executive-level health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company vehicle or generous car allowance.
• Relocation assistance if applicable.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a leading chemical enterprise in Klerksdorp .