Plant Operations Manager - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead manufacturing activities at a chemical production facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will oversee day-to-day operations, safety, quality, and delivery targets while driving efficiency and regulatory compliance.

The role requires a hands-on leader with 7+ years in chemical plant operations, strong safety and process knowledge, and the ability to manage budgets and cross-functional teams on-site in Richards Bay.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 7 years in plant operations management within chemical manufacturing.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, production schedules and teams.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, safety procedures and environmental regulations.
• Lean/Six Sigma experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day plant operations, ensuring efficient and safe production of chemical products.
• Develop and implement operational plans to meet production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules.
• Oversee maintenance and engineering functions to ensure plant equipment reliability and uptime.
• Implement and enforce strict safety protocols, environmental regulations, and quality control measures.
• Manage departmental budgets, controlling operational costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Lead, train and develop a team of plant supervisors, operators, and maintenance staff.
• Investigate production issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with the supply chain and logistics teams to ensure timely raw material procurement and finished goods dispatch.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards and government regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Safety management

Team management

Problem-solving

Lean Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Relevant chemical engineering/industrial degree

Tools

Plant management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead and oversee all manufacturing activities at their state-of-the-art chemical production facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role demands a leader with extensive experience in chemical manufacturing operations, a strong commitment to safety, and a passion for driving efficiency and quality. The Plant Operations Manager will be responsible for ensuring the plant operates smoothly, meeting production targets while adhering to the highest standards of environmental, health, and safety regulations. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to manage a vital operational site and contribute to the success of a leading company in the chemical industry. The role requires a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of chemical processes and plant management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day plant operations, ensuring efficient and safe production of chemical products.
• Develop and implement operational plans to meet production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules.
• Oversee maintenance and engineering functions to ensure plant equipment reliability and uptime.
• Implement and enforce strict safety protocols, environmental regulations, and quality control measures.
• Manage departmental budgets, controlling operational costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Lead, train and develop a team of plant supervisors, operators, and maintenance staff.
• Investigate production issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with the supply chain and logistics teams to ensure timely raw material procurement and finished goods dispatch.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards and government regulations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in plant operations management within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in managing budgets, production schedules, and operational teams.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, safety procedures, and environmental regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) is a plus.
• Proficiency in plant management software and systems.
• Demonstrated ability to ensure a safe working environment and a strong safety record.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, provident fund, and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the company are significant.
• The company invests in continuous training and development for its employees.
• This role provides the chance to lead operations in a key industrial region.
• Employees will work in a secure and well-equipped facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .