Lead Chemical Engineer - Hybrid Cape Town

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Generous annual leave

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer in Cape Town to drive operational excellence across a state-of-the-art facility. The role blends strategic remote work with essential on-site collaboration to oversee day-to-day chemical production operations.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years in chemical plant operations, with at least 3 years in a lead role, and strong expertise in process control, safety systems, and data analysis. Hybrid work and travel to other sites are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering; Master's degree preferred.
• 10+ years in chemical plant operations, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Expertise in process control, troubleshooting, and optimization techniques.
• Strong knowledge of safety management systems (HAZOP, LOPA) and environmental compliance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in process simulation and data analysis software.
• Hybrid work model with on-site presence in Cape Town.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to other company sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the operational activities of chemical production units.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization and efficiency improvements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational and technical issues affecting production.
• Mentor and develop a team of chemical engineers and technicians, fostering their professional growth.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure optimal plant uptime and asset integrity.
• Oversee process data analysis to identify trends, performance bottlenecks, and areas for enhancement.
• Participate in capital project planning and execution for plant upgrades and expansions.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure their effective implementation.
• Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement throughout the operations team.

Skills

Leadership

Process optimization

Process control

Safety management

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

Process simulation

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer in Cape Town to drive operational excellence across a state-of-the-art facility. The role blends strategic remote work with essential on-site collaboration to oversee day-to-day chemical production operations.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years in chemical plant operations, with at least 3 years in a lead role, and strong expertise in process control, safety systems, and data analysis. Hybrid work and travel to other sites are expected.