Lead Chemical Plant Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Pension fund

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a Lead Chemical Plant Engineer to oversee operations, guide a team of engineers, and drive continuous improvement across large-scale chemical processes. You will ensure safety, reliability, and environmental compliance while delivering high productivity in a demanding industrial setting.

The role requires a Master’s in Chemical Engineering, 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical plant engineering and operations, and at least 3 years in a

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 10 years in chemical plant engineering and operations.
• At least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of PSM, risk assessment, and HAZOP.
• Experience with plant automation, process control, and data analysis.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management.
• Willingness to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the chemical engineering team with technical guidance.
• Oversee design, installation, and commissioning of new plant equipment and changes.
• Develop strategies to improve throughput, cut costs, and improve product consistency.
• Ensure operations comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Conduct root cause analysis for equipment failures and deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Manage maintenance programs, preventative and predictive, to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with operations, procurement, and QA to meet plant objectives.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and emerging technologies.

Skills

Chemical plant engineering

PSM & HAZOP

Process control systems

Data analysis

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process automation software

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Lead Chemical Plant Engineer to oversee operations in their Centurion, Gauteng facility. This leadership position requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in managing complex chemical manufacturing processes, ensuring operational excellence, and driving continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will be responsible for leading a team of engineers, optimizing plant performance, and ensuring adherence to stringent safety and environmental standards. This role is crucial for maintaining and enhancing the efficiency and reliability of our production capabilities. We are looking for a proactive individual who can foster innovation and maintain high levels of productivity in a challenging industrial landscape. Your expertise will directly influence our operational success in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the chemical engineering team, providing technical expertise and mentorship.
• Oversee the design, installation, and commissioning of new plant equipment and process modifications.
• Develop and implement strategies for improving plant throughput, reducing operational costs, and enhancing product consistency.
• Ensure all plant operations comply with national and international safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Conduct root cause analysis for equipment failures and process deviations, implementing corrective actions.
• Manage plant maintenance programs, including preventative and predictive maintenance, to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, procurement, and quality assurance, to achieve plant objectives.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies to drive innovation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical plant engineering and operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity.
• Proven experience in managing large‑scale chemical processes and complex plant infrastructure.
• In‑depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM), risk assessment, and HAZOP procedures.
• Proficiency in plant automation systems, process control strategies, and data analysis.
• Strong leadership, team management, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with hybrid work models and managing teams remotely when necessary.
• Located in or willing to relocate to the Centurion, Gauteng area.

Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive executive benefits such as private medical insurance, a top‑tier pension fund, and generous leave allowances. Our client is committed to employee development, offering opportunities for advanced training, conference attendance, and leadership programs. You will work in a modern facility in Centurion, Gauteng, with access to state‑of‑the‑art technology and a collaborative work environment. This position provides significant scope for professional growth and the chance to lead critical initiatives that shape the future of our chemical operations.