Plant Process Coordinator, Western Cape

University of Fort Hare; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Fort Hare requires a Plant Process Coordinator for a permanent role based in Zandvliet, Western Cape. The candidate should have a Chemical Engineering qualification, DWS Class V Process Controller registration, and extensive wastewater treatment/SCADA experience.

Strong supervisory and analytical skills are essential. The role involves supervising the Wastewater Treatment Works, refining operational procedures, and delivering monthly performance reports while ensuring compliance

Qualifications

• The candidate must hold a degree or diploma in Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
• Must be registered as DWS Class V Process Controller.
• Minimum 6 years’ operating experience in wastewater treatment and MBR plant operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven experience with water/wastewater treatment, SCADA systems, trouble-shooting and process optimization.
• Valid code B/EB driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Assist with supervision of Wastewater Treatment Works to meet contractual obligations.
• Coordinate with Plant Management to implement operational guidelines and procedures.
• Ensure liquid and solids handling processes meet standards within budget.
• Conduct daily inspections and report findings to Plant Manager.
• Monitor wastewater analysis (COD, ammonia, etc.) and adjust operations as needed.
• Prepare monthly operational performance reports and maintain detailed records.
• Update procedure records and investigation registers; maintain ISO/ environmental management documents.
• Track readings from meters and flow indications; interpret data for improvements.
• Provide on-the-job training to team members and support process optimization initiatives.

Job description

We are seeking a Plant Process Coordinator for a permanent vacancy based in Zandvliet, Western Cape

Applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

• Degree / Diploma in Chemical Engineering or relevant equivalent or higher qualification.
• MUST be registered as DWS Class V Process Controller
• At least 6 years’ relevant operating experience in wastewater treatment and MBR plant operations of which minimum of 2 years should be at a supervisory level
• Proven experience in water / wastewater treatment environment, integrated complex SCADA systems, trouble-shooting and plant process optimization
• Valid code B/EB driver’s license
• Good communication and interpersonal skills and ability to work as an integral part of a team
• Good literacy and numeracy skills
• Accurate & detailed record keeping
• Proficient in MS Word, MS Excel and Outlook
• Mechanical and analytical aptitude (fault-finding & troubleshooting) with experience in SCADA and PLC controlled equipment and processes
• Analytical and problem-solving skills – ability to carry out situational analysis in process related problems, interpret results, advise accordingly and make knowledgeable decisions

The successful applicant would be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Assist with effective management and supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Works with respect to monitoring and control to ensure all contractual obligations are met.
• Liaising with Plant Management to implement guidelines on operational sequences and interpretation of operational procedures/instructions in terms of monitoring and adjustments to process operations.
• Ensure the liquid and solids handling processes continuously work effectively and efficiently to meet operational standards at budgeted costs.
• Conduct daily visual inspections to establish functional levels of unit processes and components and communicate/consultant with the Plant Manager on further requirements/instructions.
• Monitor wastewater analysis to determine the plant’s performance (e.g. COD, ammonia, etc.) and make necessary changes if required to improve operations.
• Analyzing and interpreting progress reports, efficiency indications and performance results by establishing the need for investigation or adjustments to the plant and operating parameters as well as alert Plant management to variables impacting the plant operation.
• Ensure detailed records are kept of all operational activities, incidents, special procedures/instructions to produce a monthly report through co-ordination of remedial, corrective and procedural requirements.
• Updating procedural records and registers of investigations, inspections, plant and system operational performance by maintaining effective administration to meet performance objectives.
• Checking recorded numerical readings from metering devices (e.g. flow meters, etc.) indication flow, levels and outputs.
• Prepare and forward operational performance reports to Plant Management referring to statistical data and qualitative information gathered through investigations and inspections.
• Investigate opportunities to improve operations and minimize losses by optimization, changes in chemical and material application and process improvement initiatives.
• Manage and provide on-the-job training to team members.
• Assist in managing, maintaining and improving the Wastewater Treatment Works within the parameters of the ISO Standards (ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 & 50001), Green Drop systems, OHS Act and Labour Laws, etc.

Salary: Market related