Principal Chemical Engineer - Project Management

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer in Sandton, Gauteng. The role leads complex chemical projects from conception to completion, defining scope, strategies, and resource plans while ensuring safety, quality and budget adherence.

You will guide multidisciplinary teams and liaise with stakeholders to deliver high-impact chemical processing initiatives. The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering with 10+ years of experience, including at least 5 years in

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years in chemical engineering with at least 5 years in PM/project engineering.
• Proven success in managing capital projects in chemical industry.
• Strong knowledge of chemical process design, scale-up, and plant operations.
• PM methodologies; PMP certification considered a plus.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Experience with HAZOP and process safety studies.
• Knowledge of contract management and vendor relations.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and closeout of diverse chemical engineering projects, including new plant design and debottlenecking.
• Develop detailed project scopes, objectives, deliverables and execution plans.
• Manage project budgets, timelines and resources.
• Coordinate with internal engineering, operations, procurement and external contractors.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies.
• Oversee technical integrity and quality of deliverables.
• Communicate project status and key decisions to stakeholders and senior management.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and project team members.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Team collaboration

Risk assessment

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in chemical innovation and manufacturing, is seeking an accomplished Principal Chemical Engineer with strong project management skills to join their team in Sandton, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves leading and managing complex chemical engineering projects from conception through to successful completion. You will be responsible for defining project scope, developing execution strategies, managing resources, and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in chemical process design, project execution, and a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive significant projects within the chemical sector in Sandton .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and closeout of diverse chemical engineering projects, including new plant design, process upgrades, and debottlenecking initiatives.


• Develop detailed project scopes, objectives, deliverables, and execution plans.


• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.


• Coordinate and collaborate with internal engineering disciplines, operations, procurement, and external contractors.


• Ensure all projects comply with stringent safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.


• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for project challenges.


• Oversee the technical integrity and quality of project deliverables.


• Communicate project status, progress, and key decisions to stakeholders and senior management.


• Mentor and guide junior engineers and project team members.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering.


• Minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical engineering, with at least 5 years in a project management or project engineering role.


• Demonstrated success in managing capital projects within the chemical industry, from feasibility to commissioning.


• Strong understanding of chemical process design, scale-up, and plant operations.


• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools (e.g., PMP certification is a plus).


• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.


• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.


• Experience with HAZOP and other process safety studies.


• Knowledge of contract management and vendor relations.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive executive health benefits, a substantial bonus scheme, and long-term incentive plans. This hybrid role offers a blend of on-site engagement at our Sandton office and remote flexibility. We provide significant opportunities for career advancement, leadership development, and participation in international projects. Join a company that is at the forefront of chemical innovation and values its employees' contributions and growth.