Process Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Chemical Engineer for our client in Welkom, Free State. You will monitor plant processes, troubleshoot issues, and drive improvements to yield and quality while upholding safety and environmental standards.

The role collaborates with operators, maintenance, and senior engineers to meet targets and implement process modifications, SOPs, and PHAs. A strong foundation in chemical engineering and industry experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited program.
• 2–5 years of experience in a chemical plant environment.
• Solid understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat/mass transfer.
• Experience with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant process data to ensure optimal performance and identify potential deviations.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and equipment malfunctions, implementing timely and effective solutions.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement necessary safety improvements.
• Develop and update operating procedures and standard operating conditions (SOPs).
• Assist in the design and implementation of process modifications and small capital projects.
• Collaborate with the maintenance department to ensure equipment reliability and process integrity.
• Support production teams in achieving operational targets and maintaining product quality standards.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, safety regulations, and environmental permits.
• Conduct root cause analyses for process incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Contribute to process safety management (PSM) programs.

Skills

Chemical engineering fundamentals

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent industrial chemicals producer, is looking for a diligent and detail-oriented Process Chemical Engineer to join their operations team in Welkom, Free State. This role is integral to ensuring the smooth, safe, and efficient operation of our chemical manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for monitoring process performance, troubleshooting operational issues, and implementing improvements to enhance yield, reduce waste, and maintain product quality. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles and practical experience in an industrial setting. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a well-established company and grow your career within a critical operational function. You will work closely with plant operators, maintenance personnel, and senior engineers to achieve production targets and uphold stringent safety and environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant process data to ensure optimal performance and identify potential deviations.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and equipment malfunctions, implementing timely and effective solutions.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement necessary safety improvements.
• Develop and update operating procedures and standard operating conditions (SOPs).
• Assist in the design and implementation of process modifications and small capital projects.
• Collaborate with the maintenance department to ensure equipment reliability and process integrity.
• Support production teams in achieving operational targets and maintaining product quality standards.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, safety regulations, and environmental permits.
• Conduct root cause analyses for process incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Contribute to process safety management (PSM) programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 2-5 years of experience in a chemical plant environment, preferably in process engineering or operations.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering fundamentals, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat/mass transfer.
• Familiarity with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and environmental regulations relevant to the chemical industry.
• Experience working in Welkom, Free State or a similar industrial area is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and opportunities for professional development and training. Employees benefit from a stable work environment within a reputable company located in Welkom, Free State. This role provides a clear path for career progression within the chemical engineering field, with exposure to diverse operational challenges.