Principal Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 4,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Top-tier health insurance

Retirement plans

Equity participation or bonuses

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer to deliver strategic technical leadership for our Sandton operations. The role focuses on driving large-scale projects, setting design standards, and mentoring engineers to foster excellence and innovation.

You will tackle complex process challenges, advance process control and simulation, and collaborate with external consultants and regulators. A PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering and 15+ years of experience are highly valued for this

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in Chemical Engineering required.
• 15+ years in chemical engineering with principal/lead role.
• Expertise in process design, scale-up and project management.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and execution of large-scale chemical projects.
• Provide expert guidance on process design, troubleshooting and optimization.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve plant efficiency, safety and environment.
• Mentor junior and senior engineers and foster knowledge sharing.
• Act as technical liaison with external consultants, vendors and regulators.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Process design

Project management

Process control

Simulation

Education

PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Chemical Engineer to provide strategic technical leadership and direction for their operations in Sandton . This senior role involves driving complex engineering projects, setting technical standards, and mentoring engineering staff to foster a culture of excellence and innovation. You will be responsible for tackling the most challenging process issues, identifying opportunities for technological advancement, and ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the chemical industry. This is a prestigious opportunity within the dynamic economic hub of Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of large-scale, complex chemical engineering projects.
• Provide expert technical guidance and oversight on process design, troubleshooting, and optimization initiatives.
• Develop and implement advanced engineering strategies to improve plant efficiency, safety, and environmental performance.
• Mentor and guide junior and senior engineers, fostering technical growth and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Act as a key technical liaison with external consultants, vendors, and regulatory bodies.
• Champion the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to maintain competitive advantage.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 15+ years of extensive experience in chemical engineering, with a significant portion in a principal or lead technical role.
• Demonstrated expertise in multiple areas of chemical process design, scale-up, and project management.
• Proven ability to solve highly complex engineering problems and develop innovative solutions.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.
• Experience with advanced process control and simulation techniques is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary package commensurate with extensive experience and leadership capabilities.
• Comprehensive executive benefits, including top-tier health insurance and retirement plans.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, industry recognition, and strategic influence.
• A challenging and stimulating work environment in Sandton , contributing to industry-leading projects.
• Potential for equity participation or significant bonuses based on project success and company performance.