Junior Chemical Engineer - Production Support

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive entry-level salary

On-the-job training and mentorship

Modern processing equipment and safe,

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Chemical Engineer to join a well-established industrial chemicals producer in Paarl, Western Cape. You will support daily operations, troubleshoot process issues, and contribute to optimization efforts under the guidance of experienced engineers.

This entry-level role offers hands-on manufacturing exposure, mentorship, and opportunities to learn in a safe, modern facility. A recent graduate with a chemistry/chemical engineering background is encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills needed.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills required.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor plant operations and identify deviations from procedures.
• Assist senior engineers in troubleshooting and implementing corrective actions.
• Collect and analyze process data for efficiency improvements.
• Participate in process hazard analyses and safety reviews.
• Maintain process documentation (OPs and P&IDs).
• Support minor process modifications and improvements.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established producer of industrial chemicals, is looking for a motivated Junior Chemical Engineer to join their production support team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role provides an excellent opportunity for an entry-level engineer to gain hands‑on experience in a manufacturing environment, supporting daily operations, troubleshooting process issues, and contributing to optimization efforts. You will work closely with senior engineers and plant operators to ensure the efficient and safe running of production units. This is a fantastic stepping stone for a recent graduate eager to build a career in chemical engineering within a supportive and challenging setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in monitoring plant operations and identifying deviations from standard procedures.
• Support senior engineers in troubleshooting production issues and implementing corrective actions.
• Collect and analyze process data to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Participate in process hazard analyses and safety reviews.
• Help maintain process documentation, including operating procedures and P&IDs.
• Assist with the implementation of minor process modifications and improvements.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical support to the operations and maintenance teams.
• Contribute to daily production meetings and reporting.
• Learn and apply chemical engineering principles in a practical industrial setting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Strong theoretical understanding of chemical engineering principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Basic knowledge of process safety and environmental regulations is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Eagerness to learn and develop new skills in a manufacturing environment.
• Previous internship or co‑op experience in a chemical plant is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive entry‑level salary, comprehensive medical aid, and participation in a retirement fund.
• We provide extensive on‑the‑job training and mentorship from experienced engineers, fostering rapid professional development.
• Employees benefit from working with modern chemical processing equipment in a safe and stable manufacturing facility.
• This is an ideal role for individuals seeking to launch their chemical engineering career in a growth‑oriented company.