Lead Chemical Engineer - Water Treatment and Purification

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement savings plan

Annual bonus

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer to head water treatment and purification projects in Cape Town. You will guide design, technology selection, and scale-up of treatment systems, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance.

The role requires a strong track record in senior water treatment roles, mentoring engineers, and delivering projects on time and within budget. A passion for sustainable water management and innovation in desalination and reuse is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in environmental engineering or water treatment.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical engineering, with at least 5 years in a lead or senior role focused on water treatment.
• In-depth knowledge of membrane technologies (RO, UF, NF), ion exchange, and conventional water treatment processes.
• Proven experience with process simulation software and hydraulic modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of water chemistry, microbiology, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex engineering projects and cross-functional teams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Experience with tendering and proposal development is highly desirable.
• Professional Engineer (PE) registration or equivalent is preferred.
• Commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in water management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of water treatment and purification systems, including desalination, wastewater reuse, and potable water treatment.
• Develop and validate process models for various water treatment technologies.
• Oversee the execution of pilot studies and scale-up of new treatment processes.
• Manage project teams, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timelines.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and HAZOP studies for water treatment plants.
• Develop and implement operational procedures and performance monitoring systems.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Provide technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Contribute to the development of new business opportunities and proposals.
• Ensure all designs and operations meet national and international environmental standards.

Skills

Water treatment

Process simulation

Membrane tech

Leadership

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Hydraulic modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading environmental solutions provider, is seeking a distinguished Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead their water treatment and purification projects in Cape Town, Western Cape . This pivotal role involves overseeing the design, implementation, and operational excellence of advanced water treatment facilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for innovative process development, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations, and managing a team of skilled engineers and technicians. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact on sustainable water management in a beautiful coastal city. You will work at the forefront of water technology, contributing to vital infrastructure projects and enhancing the quality of life for communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and engineering of water treatment and purification systems, including desalination, wastewater reuse, and potable water treatment.
• Develop and validate process models for various water treatment technologies.
• Oversee the execution of pilot studies and scale-up of new treatment processes.
• Manage project teams, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timelines.
• Conduct process hazard analyses (PHAs) and HAZOP studies for water treatment plants.
• Develop and implement operational procedures and performance monitoring systems.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Provide technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineering staff.
• Contribute to the development of new business opportunities and proposals.
• Ensure all designs and operations meet national and international environmental standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in environmental engineering or water treatment.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical engineering, with at least 5 years in a lead or senior role focused on water treatment.
• In-depth knowledge of membrane technologies (RO, UF, NF), ion exchange, and conventional water treatment processes.
• Proven experience with process simulation software and hydraulic modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of water chemistry, microbiology, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex engineering projects and cross-functional teams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Experience with tendering and proposal development is highly desirable.
• Professional Engineer (PE) registration or equivalent is preferred.
• Commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in water management.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a performance-based annual bonus. Our client provides a generous retirement savings plan, ample vacation and sick leave, and significant opportunities for professional growth and international training. A relocation package is available for candidates relocating to Cape Town . Be part of a team that is shaping a more sustainable future.