Chemical Production Operator - Richards Bay

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Extensive training programs

Career advancement

Safe working environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a diligent Chemical Production Operator to monitor and control chemical processes. You will operate processing equipment, follow procedures, and ensure safety and environmental compliance in an industrial setting.

The role requires experience in chemical plants, understanding of P&IDs, and ability to work shifts including nights and weekends. Training and career development are offered in a safety-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in operating chemical processing equipment.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes and safety procedures.
• Ability to read P&IDs and operating manuals.
• Commitment to safety and environmental compliance.
• Basic math and record-keeping skills.
• Good communication and teamwork.
• Experience with process control systems is a plus.
• Relevant technical qualification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor chemical processing equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Follow operating procedures and production schedules to meet targets.
• Perform routine checks, troubleshoot issues, and report malfunctions.
• Safely handle chemicals and use PPE.
• Conduct quality control tests on products.
• Maintain logs and records of production activities and measurements.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations.
• Participate in plant shutdowns and maintenance activities.
• Contribute to process improvements for safety and efficiency.

Skills

Process control

P&IDs interpretation

Safety procedures

Reading manuals

Data logging

Teamwork

DCS/PLC experience

Chemical engineering knowledge

Education

Technical qualification in Chemical Engineering / Process Operations

Tools

DCS/PLC systems

Job description

About the Role

A prominent chemical manufacturing company in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a diligent and safety-conscious Chemical Production Operator . This role is integral to the safe and efficient operation of our chemical processing plant. You will be responsible for monitoring and controlling chemical processes, operating specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to strict safety and environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of chemical handling, process control, and a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment. This is a hands-on position perfect for individuals who thrive in an industrial setting and are dedicated to operational excellence within the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor chemical processing equipment, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Follow detailed operating procedures and production schedules to meet output targets.
• Perform routine checks on equipment, troubleshoot minor issues, and report any malfunctions to supervisors.
• Safely handle and transfer chemicals, adhering to all safety protocols and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Conduct regular quality control tests on intermediate and finished products.
• Maintain accurate logs and records of production activities, measurements, and quality control data.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations and company policies.
• Participate in plant shutdowns, turnarounds, and maintenance activities as required.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives to enhance safety, efficiency, and product quality.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Chemical Production Operator or in a similar role within a chemical plant.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, equipment operation, and safety procedures.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) and operating manuals.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and environmental compliance.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and record keeping.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with process control systems (DCS/PLC) is an advantage.
• A relevant technical qualification in Chemical Engineering, Process Operations, or a related field is preferred.
• Must be able to work shifts, including nights and weekends, as required by the operational schedule.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• Employees benefit from extensive training programs, opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization, and a strong emphasis on health and safety.
• Join a team that is committed to responsible chemical manufacturing and provides a stable and secure working environment in the industrial hub of Richards Bay .