Junior Chemical Process Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship program

On-the-job training

Career advancement opportunities

Annual bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Junior Chemical Process Engineer for an on-site role. The position offers hands-on experience in process operations, optimization, and troubleshooting within a dynamic manufacturing environment.

You will work under senior engineers, supporting daily plant operations and contributing to safety and quality improvements, with mentorship and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• 0–3 years of experience in chemical engineering.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Familiarity with process safety principles preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to work on-site in Polokwane.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; process simulation software a plus.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control chemical processes for safe, efficient operations.
• Assist senior engineers with troubleshooting and corrective actions.
• Support process optimization to improve yield and reduce waste.
• Collect and analyze process data for performance reports.
• Assist with equipment testing, commissioning and start-ups.
• Support maintenance with understanding process requirements for equipment reliability.
• Contribute to process documentation (P&IDs and manuals).
• Participate in safety meetings and hazard identifications.
• Engage in training to expand technical skills.

Skills

Analytical ability

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a growing manufacturer of specialized chemical products, is seeking an enthusiastic Junior Chemical Process Engineer to join their dedicated team in Polokwane, Limpopo. This on-site position is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience in process operations, optimization, and troubleshooting within a dynamic manufacturing environment. You will work under the guidance of senior engineers, supporting daily plant operations, implementing process improvements, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This role is crucial for developing the next generation of process engineers within our organization and contributing to the efficient production of high-quality chemicals. Your eagerness to learn and contribute will be highly valued as you grow within our supportive team.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in monitoring and controlling chemical processes to ensure efficient and safe operation.
• Support senior engineers in troubleshooting process deviations and implementing corrective actions.
• Participate in process optimization initiatives to improve yield, reduce waste, and enhance safety.
• Collect and analyze process data, contributing to performance reports.
• Ensure adherence to operational procedures, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.
• Assist with equipment testing, commissioning, and process start-ups.
• Support the maintenance team in understanding process requirements for equipment reliability.
• Contribute to process documentation, including P&IDs and operating manuals.
• Participate in safety meetings and hazard identification exercises.
• Undertake training and development activities to enhance technical skills and knowledge.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 0-3 years of experience in chemical engineering, including internships or co-op placements.
• Basic understanding of chemical processes, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Familiarity with process safety principles is desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Eagerness to learn and develop technical expertise.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with process simulation software is a plus.
• Willingness to work on-site in Polokwane.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive entry-level salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund benefits.

This role is based at our production facility in Polokwane, Limpopo, providing a stable and supportive working environment.

We are committed to employee development, offering mentorship programs, on-the-job training, and opportunities for career advancement.

Additional benefits include annual bonuses, paid leave, and a focus on fostering a safe and healthy workplace.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated graduate to launch a successful career in chemical engineering with a forward-thinking company.