Chief Process Operator - Industrial Chemicals

Placements24; Graafwater; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowances

Performance bonuses

Medical aid and provident fund

Training and development

Job summary

Our client, a prominent chemical manufacturer, seeks a Chief Process Operator for their Paarl facility in Western Cape. You will oversee daily operations, manage operators, troubleshoot deviations, and drive improvements to yield, safety, and energy efficiency.

Role requires a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering or equivalent, 7+ years in process operations, and strong leadership and DCS/SCADA proficiency. Shift work including nights/weekends is required.

Qualifications

• N Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Chemical Technology or equivalent.
• Minimum 7 years in process operations in chemical manufacturing.
• Experience leading an operations team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of chemical processing units.
• Supervise, train and mentor a team of process operators.
• Monitor process parameters using DCS/SCADA and keep within limits.
• Respond to process upsets, alarms and emergencies with corrective actions.
• Conduct equipment and process area safety inspections.
• Enforce safety procedures and environmental regulations (e.g., HAZOP, LOTO).
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering and QA to resolve issues and implement improvements.
• Maintain accurate logs and reports; participate in process optimization initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and product specifications.

Skills

Leadership

Troubleshooting

Safety management

Communication

Team management

Problem solving

Education

National Diploma in Chemical Engineering or Chemical Technology

Tools

DCS/SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturer of specialty chemicals, is seeking a highly experienced and technically proficient Chief Process Operator to join their operational team in Paarl, Western Cape . This senior operational role is pivotal in ensuring the safe, efficient, and consistent operation of complex chemical processing plants. The Chief Process Operator will be responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing a team of operators, troubleshooting process deviations, and implementing operational improvements. We are looking for a candidate with a deep understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and quality control measures within the industrial chemical manufacturing environment. This position offers a critical role in maintaining high standards of production and safety in a key facility, contributing to the company's reputation for quality and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of chemical processing units, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of process operators, assigning tasks and monitoring performance.
• Monitor process parameters using control systems (DCS/SCADA) and ensure operations remain within specified limits.
• Respond promptly and effectively to process upsets, alarms, and emergencies, initiating corrective actions as required.
• Conduct routine inspections of equipment and process areas to identify potential safety hazards or operational issues.
• Implement and enforce strict adherence to all safety procedures, environmental regulations, and company policies (e.g., HAZOP, LOTO).
• Perform process adjustments and minor maintenance tasks as needed to maintain optimal operating conditions.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and quality control teams to resolve operational problems and implement improvements.
• Maintain accurate operational logs, records, and reports.
• Participate in process optimization initiatives to improve yield, reduce waste, and enhance energy efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and product specifications.
• Conduct safety briefings and ensure all team members are aware of potential risks and safety protocols.

Requirements

• National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Chemical Technology, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process operations within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in a supervisory or leadership role within an operations team.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mass transfer.
• Proficiency with Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and SCADA systems.
• In-depth knowledge of industrial safety regulations, hazardous materials handling, and emergency response procedures.
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, as required.
• First Aid and Fire Fighting certification is advantageous.
• Experience with ISO 9001 or similar quality management systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and responsibility, along with shift allowances and potential performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for further training and development, including advanced process control courses and safety certifications, are available.
• Based at our modern production facility in Paarl, Western Cape, offering a stable and professional working environment.
• Company fosters a strong safety culture and promotes teamwork and operational excellence.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within operations management exist.