Chemical Process Engineer - Plant Operations

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical coverage

Retirement planning

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chemical Process Engineer for our client in Mahikeng, North West. The hybrid role blends on-site plant operations with remote work to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and support safety initiatives.

The successful candidate will bring a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, 3–5 years' experience, and strong analytical and collaboration skills to drive process improvements and support R&D scaling from lab to plant.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 3–5 years of chemical plant/process engineering experience.
• Knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mass transfer.
• Familiar with process simulation software (a plus).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations and analyze process data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve process upsets and equipment malfunctions to minimize downtime.
• Implement process modifications and upgrades to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and operating manuals.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Support the R&D team in scaling up new processes from laboratory to plant scale.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to ensure reliable plant performance.
• Participate in regular safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture within the plant.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking a motivated Chemical Process Engineer to join their operations team in Mahikeng, North West. This hybrid role offers a blend of on-site engagement critical for plant operations and flexibility for remote work, facilitating improved work-life balance. The engineer will focus on optimizing existing processes, ensuring operational efficiency, troubleshooting plant issues, and supporting safety initiatives. You will be an integral part of the team responsible for maintaining and enhancing the performance of our chemical production facilities. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a practical, hands-on approach to chemical engineering challenges within the North West province.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations and analyze process data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve process upsets and equipment malfunctions to minimize downtime.
• Implement process modifications and upgrades to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and operating manuals.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Support the R&D team in scaling up new processes from laboratory to plant scale.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to ensure reliable plant performance.
• Participate in regular safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture within the plant.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 3-5 years of experience in a chemical plant or process engineering role.
• Solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mass transfer.
• Experience with process simulation software is a plus.
• Familiarity with safety standards and environmental regulations in the chemical industry.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a hybrid work model.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical coverage, and retirement planning options.
• Our client provides opportunities for professional development and career growth within the organization.
• The hybrid nature of this role allows for a flexible working arrangement, balancing essential on-site duties with remote work flexibility.
• You will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to operational excellence and innovation in Mahikeng.
• This role presents a significant opportunity to advance your career in chemical process engineering.