Lead Chemical Engineer - Industrial Gases Production

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead centurion operations in the industrial gases sector. This senior role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in process design, optimisation, safety, and cross-functional collaboration across facilities.

You will drive capital projects, mentor engineers, conduct HAZOPs, and ensure regulatory compliance while delivering performance improvements and cost reductions.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in industrial gases with 5+ in leadership.
• Proven expertise in cryogenic air separation or related processes.
• Strong safety, project and risk management experience.
• Leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, engineering and commissioning of new/modified gas facilities.
• Oversee operations performance with continuous improvement and cost reduction.
• Develop and enforce safety and environmental compliance.
• Mentor engineers and technical staff; drive a high-performance culture.
• Coordinate with procurement, sales and logistics to integrate production with business goals.
• Conduct HA ZOP reviews and risk assessments for projects and changes.
• Drive new technologies and process improvements; manage capex delivery.
• Represent the company in technical forums and industry groups.
• Develop long-term plans for process technology and infrastructure.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Budget management

Team leadership

Education

Master's in Chemical Engineering

Tools

P&IDs

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in the production and distribution of industrial gases, is seeking an exceptional Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead their operations in Centurion, Gauteng . This senior position requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in process design, optimisation, and operational management within the industrial gas sector. You will be responsible for driving efficiency, ensuring safety, and championing innovation across multiple production facilities. The role involves strategic planning, team leadership, and significant cross-functional collaboration to maintain our client's competitive edge in the market. This is a crucial role for shaping the future of industrial gas production for our client, with significant impact on operations in Centurion, Gauteng and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, engineering, and commissioning of new industrial gas production facilities and modifications to existing plants.
• Oversee the operational performance of production units, implementing strategies for continuous improvement and cost reduction.
• Develop and enforce stringent safety protocols and environmental compliance measures, ensuring adherence to all relevant regulations.
• Manage and mentor a team of chemical engineers and technical staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with procurement, sales, and logistics departments to ensure seamless integration of production with business objectives.
• Conduct in-depth technical reviews, HAZOP studies, and risk assessments for all projects and operational changes.
• Drive innovation by identifying and implementing new technologies and process improvements.
• Manage capital expenditure projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Represent the company in technical forums and industry associations.
• Develop long-term strategic plans for process technology and infrastructure development.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in the industrial gases industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven expertise in cryogenic air separation, hydrogen production, or other relevant industrial gas processes.
• In-depth knowledge of process simulation tools, P&IDs, and engineering design standards.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex engineering projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and make sound business decisions under pressure.
• Experience in budget management and financial analysis for large-scale projects.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting complex operational issues.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly attractive compensation package, including performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous retirement plan. Continuous professional development is a core value, with extensive training programs and opportunities for international assignments. The working environment in Centurion, Gauteng is stimulating and collaborative, promoting innovation and teamwork. You will have the opportunity to work on challenging projects that shape the future of the industrial gases sector. This role offers significant career advancement potential within a global organisation.