Industrial Cleaning Specialist - Petrochemical Sector

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 680,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Above-average salary package

Comprehensive medical aid and pension

Training and certification programs

Overtime pay opportunities

PPE provided

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng seeks an Industrial Cleaning Specialist to manage cleaning of complex equipment, tanks and process areas in a high‑risk petrochemical setting. You will implement detailed cleaning plans, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain asset integrity, safety, and uptime.

The role requires 5+ years’ experience in industrial cleaning, hazardous materials handling, confined space entry, and operation of jetting and vacuum systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in industrial cleaning, preferably petrochemical.
• Experience with hazardous materials handling and confined space entry.
• Safety certifications (OSHA/NEBOSH/CCNSG) desirable.
• Knowledge of SA petrochemical safety regulations.
• Ability to operate and maintain specialized cleaning equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Perform cleaning on industrial equipment, tanks, pipelines and vessels in Vereeniging.
• Follow strict safety procedures including confined space entry and lockout/tagout.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials per regulations.
• Operate jetting, vacuum and chemical cleaning equipment.
• Conduct pre-cleaning inspections and post-cleaning assessments.
• Maintain detailed records of cleaning activities and safety checks.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance and safety teams.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and industry standards.
• Respond to emergencies and mitigate cleaning-related risks.
• Suggest improvements to cleaning methods and safety procedures.

Skills

Hazardous material handling

Confined space entry

High-pressure washing

Safety compliance

Shift flexibility

Education

OSHA certification

NEBOSH

CCNSG

Tools

High-pressure water jetting units

Vacuum systems

Chemical cleaning apparatus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly skilled Industrial Cleaning Specialist for their facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This specialized role requires extensive experience in cleaning complex industrial equipment, tanks, and process areas within a high-risk environment. The ideal candidate will possess in-depth knowledge of specialized cleaning techniques, hazardous material handling, confined space entry procedures, and stringent safety protocols inherent to the petrochemical sector. You will be responsible for executing detailed cleaning plans, ensuring the integrity and safety of industrial assets, and minimizing operational downtime. This position demands exceptional attention to detail, a commitment to safety above all else, and the ability to work effectively in challenging conditions. Your expertise will be critical in maintaining the operational efficiency and safety standards of our client's plant in Vereeniging. We are looking for a seasoned professional who understands the unique demands of industrial cleaning in hazardous environments and is dedicated to upholding the highest levels of performance and safety. The successful applicant will be an integral part of the operational support team, ensuring compliance with industry-specific regulations and best practices in Gauteng. This role requires a rigorous approach to all tasks, ensuring reliability and safety in all cleaning operations within the petrochemical facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform specialized cleaning operations on industrial equipment, tanks, pipelines, and process vessels in Vereeniging.
• Implement and adhere to strict safety procedures, including confined space entry, lockout/tagout, and working at heights protocols.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous materials and chemicals in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Operate specialized industrial cleaning equipment such as high-pressure water jetting units, vacuum systems, and chemical cleaning apparatus.
• Conduct pre-cleaning inspections and post-cleaning assessments to ensure thoroughness and safety.
• Maintain detailed records of cleaning activities, safety checks, and equipment usage.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, maintenance, and safety teams to plan and execute cleaning projects.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards and environmental regulations for the petrochemical sector.
• Respond to emergency situations and perform necessary cleaning tasks to mitigate risks.
• Continuously assess and recommend improvements to cleaning methods and safety procedures.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in industrial cleaning, with a strong focus on the petrochemical, oil, gas, or chemical industries.
• Demonstrated expertise in hazardous material handling, confined space entry, and high-pressure washing.
• Relevant safety certifications (e.g., OSHA, NEBOSH, CCNSG) are highly desirable.
• Thorough understanding of safety regulations and best practices specific to the petrochemical industry in South Africa.
• Ability to operate and maintain specialized industrial cleaning equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Excellent physical condition and ability to work in demanding environments.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to safety and quality.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including shift work, overtime, and call‑outs as needed in Vereeniging.
• Strong communication skills for effective coordination with various site teams.

Benefits

• An above-average salary package reflecting the specialized nature and risks of the role.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and certification in industrial cleaning and safety.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for overtime pay.
• Exposure to cutting-edge industrial cleaning technologies and practices.
• A challenging and rewarding career in a vital sector of the Gauteng economy.
• Generous annual leave and adherence to all labor laws.
• Provision of all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety gear.