Lead Chemical Plant Engineer

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career development

On-site role

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Plant Engineer to oversee operations at our client’s advanced facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will lead a team of engineers and operators to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant plant performance.

You will drive continuous improvement, develop maintenance strategies, and ensure adherence to environmental and safety standards in a hands-on, on-site role in Tembisa. Suitable candidates will have strong leadership and process control expertise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field required.
• Master's degree is advantageous for growth and leadership responsibilities.
• 8+ years of progressive chemical plant operations/management experience.
• Proven ability to lead engineering teams and manage large facilities.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, equipment, and safety systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of chemical engineers and plant operators to ensure optimal plant performance.
• Oversee day-to-day operations ensuring production schedules and quality standards.
• Develop and implement robust safety procedures and emergency response plans.
• Manage maintenance programs including preventative and corrective maintenance.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Decision making

DCS/SCADA

Project management

Team leadership

Regulatory compliance

Industrial safety

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

DCS/SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Lead Chemical Plant Engineer to oversee and manage operations at their advanced manufacturing facility in Tembisa, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves leading a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all chemical processing units. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, plant operations, and maintenance strategies. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our client's production capabilities in a demanding but rewarding industrial setting. We are looking for a visionary leader who can drive continuous improvement initiatives and foster a culture of safety and operational excellence within the plant. The role is based on-site in Tembisa, Gauteng , emphasizing hands-on leadership and direct operational involvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of chemical engineers and plant operators to ensure optimal plant performance.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the chemical plant, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
• Develop and implement robust safety procedures and emergency response plans.
• Manage plant maintenance programs, including preventative and corrective maintenance, to minimize downtime.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and permits.
• Collaborate with procurement and supply chain to manage raw material inventory and consumables.
• Conduct regular plant inspections and audits to identify and mitigate risks.
• Oversee capital expenditure projects for plant upgrades and expansions.
• Provide technical expertise and troubleshooting support for complex operational issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• At least 8 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations and management.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing large-scale industrial facilities.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical processes, equipment, and safety systems.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective maintenance strategies.
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, particularly environmental and safety standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Experience with process control systems (DCS/SCADA) is essential.
• Project management skills for overseeing plant modifications and upgrades.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make critical decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Residing in or willing to relocate to the Tembisa, Gauteng area.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience, including annual performance bonuses.
• Full medical aid coverage and a generous provident fund are part of the comprehensive benefits.
• This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
• We invest in our employees' professional development through ongoing training and exposure to new technologies.
• The on-site role in Tembisa, Gauteng ensures you are at the heart of our operations.
• Additional benefits include ample annual leave, performance recognition programs, and a supportive work environment.