Plant Operations Supervisor - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Plant Operations Supervisor to oversee daily chemical production. You will lead a team of plant operators, manage schedules, and ensure safe, compliant operations at our Durban facility.

You will optimize processes, monitor equipment performance, enforce safety protocols including HAZOP, and collaborate with maintenance to ensure reliability. Requires strong leadership, 5+ years in plant operations, and a relevant engineering degree.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in plant operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.
• Proven ability to manage teams, delegate tasks, and ensure operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate plant operators and technicians to ensure smooth operations.
• Monitor production processes and safety procedures to maintain optimal conditions and compliance.
• Develop and implement production schedules for timely and cost-effective manufacturing.
• Train new employees and provide ongoing development for staff.
• Troubleshoot operational issues to minimize downtime and losses.
• Maintain accurate production records and report performance to management.
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering to ensure equipment reliability.

Skills

Team leadership

Chemical processing

Safety protocols (HAZOP)

Process safety management (PSM)

Plant control systems

Education

Technical Diploma or Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing company, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Plant Operations Supervisor to oversee daily operations at their facility in Durban. This role is critical in ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant production of chemical products. The successful candidate will lead a team of plant operators, manage production schedules, and implement best practices in operational safety and efficiency. We are looking for a proactive leader with a strong background in chemical processing and a commitment to operational excellence. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a well-established company in the industrial hub of Durban and contribute significantly to its success. You will be instrumental in maintaining high standards of production and safety within the KwaZulu-Natal region.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the activities of plant operators and technicians to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
• Monitor production processes, equipment performance, and safety procedures, intervening as necessary to maintain optimal conditions.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements within the chemical plant.
• Develop and implement production schedules, ensuring timely and cost-effective manufacturing of products.
• Train new employees and provide ongoing training and development for existing staff.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement solutions to minimize downtime and production losses.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and promote a strong safety culture among the team.
• Manage inventory of raw materials and finished goods, coordinating with supply chain for replenishment.
• Maintain accurate production records and submit regular performance reports to management.
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering departments to ensure equipment reliability and planned maintenance.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent; a Technical Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in plant operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols (e.g., HAZOP), and environmental regulations.
• Proven ability to manage teams, delegate tasks, and ensure operational efficiency.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in operating plant control systems and relevant software.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) is highly desirable.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including shifts and occasional weekends, as needed for operational coverage in Durban.
• Must be physically fit and able to work in an industrial environment.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to the Durban area, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including medical aid, pension fund, and performance-based bonuses. We provide a challenging yet rewarding work environment with ample opportunities for career advancement. Employees have access to ongoing training and development programs focused on enhancing technical skills and leadership capabilities. Join our team in Durban and be part of a company that prioritizes safety, innovation, and employee well-being. Experience the difference of working in a dynamic chemical manufacturing setting with a commitment to sustainable practices.