Lead Chemical Process Engineer - Fertilizer Production

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary package

Annual bonus

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement fund contribution

Life assurance

Relocation assistance

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Process Engineer to supervise a team at a Richards Bay facility. You will design, implement, and optimize large-scale fertilizer production processes (ammonia, urea, NPK) while ensuring safety and environmental compliance.

The role combines site leadership with remote strategic planning. The ideal candidate has 10+ years in chemical process engineering, advanced degrees, and hands-on experience with Aspen Plus and process control systems.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering required.
• 10+ years of chemical process engineering experience with leadership exposure.
• Extensive design and operation experience in ammonia, urea, or NPK plants.
• Strong knowledge of process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment.
• Proven project management experience including budgets and schedules.
• Experience with Aspen Plus and advanced process control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of chemical process engineers.
• Oversee design, modification, and optimization of fertilizer production processes.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Develop strategies to improve process efficiency, energy use, and waste reduction.
• Manage capital projects from conception to completion.
• Conduct root cause analyses and implement sustainable solutions.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and R&D to meet targets.
• Stay abreast of fertilizer production advancements and best practices.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and project proposals.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Process optimization

Communication

Stakeholder management

Hybrid work adaptability

Debottlenecking

Energy efficiency improvements

Safety culture

Education

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Advanced process control systems

Job description

Our client, a major player in the agricultural inputs sector, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Lead Chemical Process Engineer to oversee operations at their facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves leading the process engineering team in the design, implementation, and optimization of large-scale fertilizer production processes. You will be responsible for ensuring operational efficiency, safety, environmental compliance, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing complex chemical processes, leading engineering projects, and mentoring junior staff. This hybrid position allows for strategic decision-making and team leadership from both the site and a remote capacity, offering a blend of operational engagement and strategic planning. You will play a pivotal role in enhancing production capacity, reducing operational costs, and maintaining the highest industry standards. This is a senior position for a seasoned professional looking to make a significant impact in a vital industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of chemical process engineers.
• Oversee the design, modification, and optimization of fertilizer production processes, including ammonia, urea, and NPK plants.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
• Develop and implement strategies for improving process efficiency, energy consumption, and waste reduction.
• Manage capital projects related to process upgrades and expansions, from conception to completion.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process upsets and implement sustainable solutions.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D departments to achieve production targets.
• Stay current with advancements in fertilizer production technology and best practices.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and project proposals.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with at least 5 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience in the design and operation of ammonia, urea, or NPK fertilizer plants.
• Strong knowledge of process safety management (PSM) and risk assessment methodologies.
• Proven experience in project management, including budget and schedule control.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus) and advanced process control systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Experience with debottlenecking and efficiency improvement projects.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive-level salary package, including a substantial annual bonus, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a generous retirement fund contribution, and life assurance. Opportunities for international travel and professional development at leading industry conferences are provided. This role is based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , with a hybrid working arrangement. Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates. We foster a culture of safety, innovation, and sustainability. Join a leading organization contributing to global food security.