Lead Chemical Engineer - Industrial Water Treatment

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Pension scheme

Annual performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Chemical Engineer to head operations in George, Western Cape. Design, implement, and optimize advanced chemical treatment processes for industrial water and wastewater while leading engineers and technicians to ensure compliance and innovation.

The role combines on-site leadership with hybrid work flexibility, emphasizing water chemistry, coagulation, flocculation, and disinfection, and requires strong PM skills and stakeholder collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in industrial water and wastewater treatment, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity.
• In-depth knowledge of water chemistry, water treatment technologies (membrane filtration, ion exchange, disinfection), and chemical dosing systems.
• Experience with process simulation and design software.
• Strong project management skills with a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with environmental regulations and permitting processes in South Africa.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is required.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote responsibilities with on-site project needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of chemical treatment systems for industrial water and wastewater applications.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and ongoing operation of treatment plants, ensuring optimal performance and compliance.
• Conduct water quality analyses and interpret results to tailor chemical treatment strategies.
• Develop and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce chemical consumption.
• Manage project lifecycles from concept to construction supervision.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers, chemists, and technicians.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with clients and regulators to deliver water treatment solutions.
• Research and evaluate new technologies and chemicals for potential application.

Skills

Water chemistry

Coagulation & Flocculation

Disinfection

Process simulation

Project management

Leadership

Team leadership

Communication skills

Chemical dosing systems

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Design software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking leader in environmental solutions and industrial water management, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Chemical Engineer to head their operations in George, Western Cape. This pivotal role involves the design, implementation, and optimization of advanced chemical treatment processes for industrial water and wastewater. You will be responsible for leading a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations, and developing innovative solutions to address complex water challenges. The successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, particularly in areas like water chemistry, coagulation, flocculation, and disinfection, coupled with a proven ability to manage projects and lead teams. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of water treatment technologies and contribute to sustainable industrial practices in the George region and beyond. We are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of chemical treatment systems for industrial water and wastewater applications.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and ongoing operation of treatment plants, ensuring optimal performance and compliance.
• Conduct thorough water quality analyses and interpret results to tailor chemical treatment strategies.
• Develop and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce chemical consumption, and minimize environmental impact.
• Manage project lifecycles, from conceptual design and feasibility studies to detailed engineering and construction supervision.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical engineers, chemists, and technicians.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to deliver successful water treatment solutions.
• Research and evaluate new technologies and chemicals for potential application in water treatment.
• Prepare technical proposals, reports, and presentations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering from a recognized university.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in industrial water and wastewater treatment, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity.
• In-depth knowledge of water chemistry, water treatment technologies (e.g., membrane filtration, ion exchange, disinfection methods), and chemical dosing systems.
• Demonstrated experience with process simulation and design software.
• Strong project management skills, with a proven ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with environmental regulations and permitting processes in South Africa.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is required.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote responsibilities with on-site project needs.

Benefits

This role comes with a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical coverage, a generous pension scheme, and annual performance bonuses. Our client offers significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development, including specialized training courses and participation in industry conferences. The company fosters a dynamic and supportive work culture, promoting innovation and collaboration. Employees also enjoy ample vacation time and access to advanced tools and technologies. Relocation assistance can be discussed for highly qualified candidates moving to the George area.