Operations Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Safe work environment

Modern production facilities

Impactful role

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Operations Chemical Engineer for our Vereeniging facility. You will oversee day-to-day chemical production, troubleshoot deviations, and push for efficiency while ensuring safety and quality standards.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong process knowledge and a commitment to continuous improvement in a robust industrial environment.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemical Engineering and relevant field.
• Experience in chemical plant operations or production roles.
• Strong understanding of process control, thermodynamics and kinetics.
• Hands-on problem solving and leadership in an industrial setting.
• Commitment to safety and environmental practices.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of chemical processing units and ensure schedules.
• Troubleshoot deviations, equipment issues and quality concerns in real time.
• Implement process optimization to improve yield and energy use.
• Ensure SHE compliance and safe operating practices.
• Collaborate with maintenance, QA and R&D to resolve issues.
• Develop SOPs and provide operator training.

Skills

Process control

Thermodynamics

Chemical kinetics

Troubleshooting

Leadership

Communication

Education

Chemical Engineering degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Operations Chemical Engineer to join their manufacturing facility in Vereeniging . This critical on-site role involves ensuring the smooth, efficient, and safe day-to-day operation of chemical production processes. You will be responsible for troubleshooting operational issues, optimizing process performance, and implementing improvements to meet production targets and quality standards. This position requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to operational excellence within a robust industrial setting, contributing directly to the company's success.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of chemical processing units, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to schedules.
• Troubleshoot and resolve process deviations, equipment malfunctions, and quality issues in real-time.
• Implement process optimization initiatives to improve yield, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with maintenance, quality control, and R&D teams to address operational challenges and implement improvements.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and provide training to plant operators.

Requirements

• Degree in Chemical Engineering .
• Proven experience in a chemical plant operations or production role.
• Strong understanding of process control, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics.
• Hands-on experience with troubleshooting and problem-solving in an industrial environment.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills to effectively manage operational teams.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• A stable work environment with a focus on employee safety and well-being.
• Access to modern production facilities and advanced technology.
• Direct impact on plant efficiency and operational success.