Junior Chemical Engineer - Manufacturing Support

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Chemical Engineer to support manufacturing operations in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This hybrid role offers hands-on experience in process troubleshooting, optimization, and continuous improvement alongside senior engineers and production teams.

You will collect data, analyze trends, and participate in improvement projects while upholding safety standards and quality. This entry-level position focuses on skill development in a production environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 0–3 years of experience (internships or co‑ops allowed).
• Foundational knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer.
• Basic knowledge of process control and instrumentation; strong analytical skills.
• Good communication and ability to work in a team; willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in monitoring and optimizing manufacturing processes.
• Support troubleshooting to identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Collect and analyze process data to identify trends and improvements.
• Participate in debottlenecking and waste reduction projects.
• Assist in preparing SOPs and batch records.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance on the plant floor.
• Conduct basic process calculations and simulations as needed.
• Collaborate with quality control and maintenance to ensure product quality and equipment reliability.
• Gain hands-on experience in various chemical manufacturing aspects in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic manufacturer of industrial additives, is seeking a motivated Junior Chemical Engineer to provide essential support to their manufacturing operations in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**. This hybrid role offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer to gain hands‑on experience in process troubleshooting, optimization, and continuous improvement within a production environment. You will work closely with senior engineers and production teams to ensure smooth and efficient plant operations, uphold quality standards, and contribute to process enhancements. This position requires a proactive attitude, a willingness to learn, and strong analytical skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in monitoring and optimizing manufacturing processes.
• Support troubleshooting efforts for production issues, helping to identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Collect and analyze process data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Participate in process improvement projects, such as debottlenecking and waste reduction initiatives.
• Assist in the preparation of process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) and batch records.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations on the plant floor.
• Conduct basic process calculations and simulations as required.
• Collaborate with quality control and maintenance teams to ensure product quality and equipment reliability.
• Gain practical experience in various aspects of chemical manufacturing in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 0-3 years of relevant experience, including internships or co-op placements.
• Foundational understanding of chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Basic knowledge of process control and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with simulation software is a plus.
• Eagerness to learn and develop new skills within a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to work effectively in both on-site plant settings and remote analysis/reporting.
• Proximity to **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga** is required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive entry‑level salary, comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a provident fund, and excellent training and mentorship opportunities. This role provides a solid foundation for a career in chemical engineering within the manufacturing sector. You will work in a supportive environment with clear pathways for career progression. Join our team in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga** and kick‑start your engineering career.