Lead Chemical Engineer - Plant Operations

Placements24; George; Híbrido; ZAR 1.000.000 - 1.800.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Attractive salary package with bonuses

Generous leave allowance and medical-a

International training opportunities

Access to state-of-the-art facilities

Relocation assistance may be provided

Dynamic and supportive work culture

Sustainable chemical production focus

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 seeks a Lead Chemical Engineer to head plant operations in George, Western Cape. The role blends on-site leadership with remote work, driving safety, efficiency and sustainability across day-to-day manufacturing processes.

The ideal candidate has a Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering with 10+ years in chemical plant operations, strong leadership, and a track record of process improvements, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional collaboration.

Formación

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 10 years in chemical plant operations and process engineering.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience in chemical manufacturing.
• Knowledge of process control, safety management systems and environmental compliance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a record of improvements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal leadership abilities.
• Ability to operate in a hybrid on-site/remote setting.
• Pr Eng certification is advantageous.

Responsabilidades

• Oversee and manage all chemical plant operations for safe, efficient production.
• Develop strategies to optimize process performance, yield and energy use.
• Lead troubleshooting, identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Manage engineering team with technical guidance and performance reviews.
• Collaborate with R&D, maintenance and quality control for smooth operations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and technology upgrades.
• Prepare and manage budgets for operations and CAPEX.
• Conduct process hazard analyses and implement risk controls.
• Develop and maintain SOPs and engineering documentation.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Process control

Safety management

Environmental compliance

Analytical thinking

Educación

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client is a prominent player in the industrial chemicals sector, seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead plant operations in George, Western Cape. This role offers a stimulating hybrid work arrangement, blending essential on-site presence with the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in overseeing and optimizing day-to-day chemical manufacturing processes, ensuring adherence to stringent safety, quality, and environmental standards. This position demands a leader with a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, exceptional problem-solving capabilities, and a proven ability to manage complex projects and teams. The successful candidate will drive operational excellence, foster innovation, and contribute significantly to the company's growth and efficiency. We are looking for a hands‑on engineer who can bridge the gap between strategic planning and practical execution, guiding the plant towards enhanced productivity and sustainability. This role is critical for maintaining and improving the operational integrity of our client's manufacturing facilities in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of chemical plant operations, ensuring efficient and safe production.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize process performance, yield, and energy consumption.
• Lead process troubleshooting initiatives, identifying root causes of deviations and implementing effective solutions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations and standards.
• Manage the engineering team, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
• Collaborate with R&D, maintenance, and quality control departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Identify and champion opportunities for process improvements and technological upgrades.
• Prepare and manage budgets for plant operations and capital expenditure projects.
• Conduct regular process hazard analyses and implement risk mitigation measures.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and engineering documentation.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical plant operations and process engineering.
• Proven experience in a leadership or supervisory role within a chemical manufacturing environment.
• In-depth knowledge of process control, safety management systems, and environmental compliance.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a track record of implementing process improvements.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and on‑site responsibilities.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies is advantageous.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) certification.
• Experience with industrial‑scale chemical processes.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Generous leave allowance and medical aid contribution.
• Opportunities for international training and professional development.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities and technology.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates.
• A dynamic and supportive work culture committed to employee growth.
• Contribution to a company focused on sustainable chemical production.