Lead Chemical Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance to Richards Bay

Competitive executive benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead Chemical Engineer for a major Richards Bay facility. You will oversee design, operation, and optimization of complex petrochemical processes, ensuring safety, efficiency and environmental compliance, while mentoring engineers and driving capital projects.

The role requires a BEng or MEng in Chemical Engineering, 10+ years in petrochemicals or oil and gas, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• BEng or MEng in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years in petrochemical or oil & gas.
• 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Deep understanding of petrochemical processes including refining, cracking and polymerization.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale engineering projects and PSM.
• Experience with APC and simulation tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, modification, and operation of petrochemical plants.
• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization, cost reduction, and yield improvement.
• Oversee planning and execution of major capital projects within budget and schedule.
• Provide expert technical consultation on process safety, environmental regulations, and operational best practices.
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers, fostering continuous learning.
• Liaise with management, operations, and external vendors.

Skills

Leadership

Process optimization

Petrochemical

PSM

APC & simulation

Stakeholder liaison

Mentoring

Education

BEng in Chemical Engineering

MEng in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Advanced process control (APC)

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a seasoned Lead Chemical Engineer with extensive experience in the Petrochemical industry for their major facility in Richards Bay . This leadership position involves overseeing the design, operation, and optimization of complex petrochemical processes, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. You will mentor a team of engineers, drive capital projects, and provide expert technical guidance to maintain operational excellence and spearhead technological advancements in a challenging industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering team responsible for the design, modification, and operation of petrochemical plants.


• Develop and implement strategies for process optimization, cost reduction, and yield improvement.


• Oversee the planning and execution of major capital projects, ensuring adherence to budget and schedule.


• Provide expert technical consultation on process safety, environmental regulations, and operational best practices.


• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level chemical engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning.


• Liaise with stakeholders, including management, operations, and external vendors.

Requirements

• BEng or MEng in Chemical Engineering .


• 10+ years of experience in the petrochemical or oil and gas sector, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.


• Deep understanding of petrochemical processes, including refining, cracking, and polymerization.


• Proven track record in managing large-scale engineering projects and process safety management (PSM).


• Experience with advanced process control (APC) and simulation tools.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive executive benefits package.


• Significant bonus potential tied to company and individual performance.


• Relocation assistance to the vibrant coastal city of Richards Bay .


• Access to world-class facilities and professional development opportunities.


• A challenging and rewarding role with significant impact on a global industry.