Chemical Process Operator

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 150,000 - 450,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 supports a leading Oil & Gas and chemical processing company in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, seeking a Chemical Process Operator. This hands-on role monitors and controls plant equipment, performs routine checks and responds to deviations to keep production targets and safety standards on track.

You will read P&IDs and SOPs, adhere to LOTO and confined space protocols, and collaborate with maintenance to ensure equipment uptime.

Qualifications

• National Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years in a Chemical Process Operator role in Oil & Gas or petrochemicals.
• Understanding of chemical plant operations, processes, and equipment.
• Familiar with safety procedures incl. LOTO and confined space.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor chemical process units per SOPs.
• Control temperature, pressure, flow and levels for quality.
• Inspect equipment and report abnormalities or hazards.
• Take corrective actions within procedures; escalate as needed.
• Perform sampling and basic lab tests for process performance.
• Maintain logs of operations and incidents.
• Comply with HSE regulations and company policies.
• Participate in emergency drills and procedures.
• Assist startup/shutdown of process units.
• Collaborate with maintenance for equipment upkeep.

Skills

Chemical process knowledge

Safety compliance

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

National Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology or Process Instrumentation

Tools

LOTO procedures

P&ID reading

Process instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Oil & Gas and chemical processing industry, is seeking a diligent and skilled Chemical Process Operator to join their operational team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This hands-on role is fundamental to the safe and efficient operation of our processing plants, ensuring that production targets are met while adhering to stringent safety and environmental standards. The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring and controlling process equipment, performing routine checks, and responding to operational deviations. We are looking for a motivated individual with a strong understanding of chemical processes and a commitment to operational excellence. This position offers a stable career path within a critical sector, contributing directly to the company’s success in Nelspruit. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a dedication to maintaining plant integrity and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor various chemical process units and equipment according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Control process parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rates, and levels to ensure optimal production and product quality.
• Perform regular inspections of equipment and plant areas, identifying and reporting any abnormalities or potential hazards.
• Take corrective actions as necessary within established protocols, or escape issues to supervisors.
• Conduct routine sampling and basic laboratory tests to monitor process performance and product quality.
• Maintain accurate logs and records of operational activities, including production data and any incidents.
• Adhere strictly to all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
• Participate in emergency response drills and procedures.
• Assist in the startup and shutdown of process units as required.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure timely and effective equipment upkeep.

Requirements

• A relevant technical qualification, such as a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology, Process Instrumentation, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Chemical Process Operator or in a similar role within the Oil & Gas, chemical, or petrochemical industry.
• Sound understanding of chemical plant operations, processes, and equipment.
• Knowledge of safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and confined space entry protocols.
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs and SOPs.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Must be physically fit and able to work shifts, including nights and weekends, as required.
• Willingness to work full-time on-site in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including shift allowances and potential overtime pay. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and annual bonuses based on performance. Opportunities for further training and certification within the Oil & Gas sector are provided. The company emphasizes a safe and supportive working environment in Nelspruit, promoting career development and long-term employment.