Junior Chemical Engineer - Process Operations

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Junior Chemical Engineer to join a growing chemical team in Soweto, Gauteng. This entry-level opportunity offers hands-on experience in plant operations and process engineering under a supportive environment.

You will assist with monitoring performance, data collection, basic analyses, and documentation, building strong foundations in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and instrumentation. A proactive learner will thrive here.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline.
• Strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat/mass transfer.
• Basic knowledge of process control and instrumentation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in monitoring process parameters and plant performance.
• Support troubleshooting of process deviations and equipment malfunctions.
• Participate in data collection and basic process analyses.
• Help maintain operating procedures and logs.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental permits, and company policies.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives under supervision.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a growing enterprise in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking a motivated Junior Chemical Engineer to join their operational team in **Soweto, Gauteng**. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for a recent graduate to gain hands‑on experience in chemical plant operations and process engineering. You will support senior engineers in monitoring plant performance, troubleshooting operational issues, implementing process improvements, and ensuring adherence to safety and environmental standards. The role requires a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, a willingness to learn, and a proactive attitude towards problem‑solving. You will work closely with experienced professionals in a supportive environment, contributing to the efficient and safe production of essential chemical products.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior engineers in monitoring chemical process parameters and plant performance.
• Support troubleshooting of process deviations and equipment malfunctions.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives and data collection efforts.
• Help maintain process documentation, including operating procedures and logs.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental permits, and company policies.
• Conduct basic process analyses and generate reports under supervision.
• Assist in the implementation of minor process modifications and equipment checks.
• Gain hands‑on experience with plant operations and control systems.
• Support the maintenance and quality control teams as needed.
• Actively participate in team meetings and contribute to problem‑solving sessions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 0-3 years of experience in a chemical engineering role, internships or co‑op experience is highly valued.
• Solid understanding of fundamental chemical engineering principles (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat/mass transfer).
• Basic knowledge of process control and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving aptitude.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and follow instructions diligently.
• Eagerness to learn and develop professional skills.
• Familiarity with safety procedures in an industrial setting.
• Experience or knowledge of **Soweto, Gauteng** industrial context is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive entry‑level salary, comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits, and significant opportunities for training and career development. This role based in **Soweto, Gauteng** provides a practical and supportive environment for aspiring chemical engineers to build their careers. You will be part of a company committed to employee growth and development within the chemical manufacturing sector.