Industrial Cleaning Technician - Petrochemical Plants

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Overtime pay

Hazard allowances

Health and safety training

PPE provided

Job summary

Placements24 represents a major petrochemical employer in Durban seeking an Industrial Cleaning Technician. The role requires performing specialized cleaning in plant environments, handling hazardous materials, and using high-pressure washing and vacuum equipment.

Safety, compliance, and precise reporting are essential to protect personnel and assets. The candidate must navigate confined spaces, follow strict PPE and lockout/tagout protocols, and collaborate with operations to complete tasks

Qualifications

• Experience in industrial cleaning, preferably in petrochemical environments.
• Proficient in high-pressure washing and vacuum system operation.
• Knowledge of confined space entry procedures and safety regulations.
• Ability to work safely in hazardous environments with PPE and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized cleaning in petrochemical plant environments such as tanks and pipelines.
• Operate and maintain high-pressure cleaning equipment and vacuum systems.
• Follow safe confined space entry procedures for cleaning operations.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous waste per safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct pre- and post-cleaning inspections to verify standards.
• Report equipment malfunctions and safety hazards promptly.
• Adhere to lockout/tagout and PPE protocols throughout tasks.
• Coordinate with plant operations to schedule cleaning tasks efficiently.
• Maintain accurate logs of cleaning activities and safety checks.
• Participate in ongoing safety training and improvement initiatives.

Skills

Industrial Cleaning

High-Pressure Washing

Hazardous materials

Confined space entry

Safety compliance

Team communication

Tools

High-pressure washer

Vacuum systems

PPE usage

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Industrial Cleaning Technician. This demanding role is essential for maintaining the operational integrity and safety of our client's complex facilities. You will be responsible for specialized cleaning tasks within petrochemical plants, requiring a strong understanding of hazardous materials handling, high-pressure washing, and confined space entry procedures. The successful candidate must be highly disciplined, adhere strictly to safety protocols, and be capable of working effectively in challenging industrial environments. This is a critical position that ensures the smooth and safe operation of one of the region's key industrial sites, directly contributing to plant uptime and regulatory compliance. The role involves working with specialized equipment and requires a commitment to the highest standards of industrial hygiene and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform specialized cleaning operations in petrochemical plant environments, including tanks, pipelines, and processing units.
• Operate and maintain high-pressure cleaning equipment and vacuum systems.
• Execute safe confined space entry procedures for cleaning operations.
• Handle and dispose of hazardous waste materials in accordance with strict safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct pre-cleaning inspections and post-cleaning verifications to ensure standards are met.
• Identify and report any equipment malfunctions or potential safety hazards.
• Adhere to all site-specific safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Work collaboratively with plant operations and maintenance teams to schedule and execute cleaning tasks efficiently.
• Maintain accurate logs and reports of cleaning activities performed.
• Participate in ongoing safety training and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Industrial Cleaner, preferably within the petrochemical, oil, or gas industry.
• Certification or demonstrated experience in high-pressure washing and vacuum truck operations.
• Experience with confined space entry procedures and rescue techniques.
• Thorough understanding of hazardous materials handling and safety regulations (e.g., COMAH).
• Possession of relevant safety certifications (e.g., working at heights, basic safety induction).
• Ability to work effectively in demanding, potentially hazardous conditions.
• Strong physical stamina and manual dexterity.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including shift work and occasional overtime, as operational needs dictate.
• Good communication skills for reporting and teamwork.

Benefits

We offer a competitive remuneration package, including overtime pay and hazard allowances, reflecting the demanding nature of the role. Our client provides comprehensive health and safety training, including specialized certifications, and all necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This position includes a stable, full-time employment contract with opportunities for career advancement within the industrial services sector. Furthermore, you will be part of a highly respected organization that prioritizes employee well-being and operational excellence in Durban .