Process Chemical Engineer - Fertilizer Production

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, seeks a Process Chemical Engineer to design, optimize and troubleshoot fertilizer production processes in a hybrid work setting. You will analyze operations, lead improvements, and ensure regulatory compliance for safe, efficient output.

The role emphasizes collaboration with production, maintenance and R&D teams, with a focus on safety, sustainability and adoption of new technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 6 years in process engineering, fertilizer focus preferred.
• Experience with PHAs/HAZOP and PSM principles advantageous.
• Proficient with process simulation software (Aspen Plus, HYSYS).

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot fertilizer processes (ammonia, urea, phosphates).
• Run simulations to predict performance and identify improvements.
• Analyze data to monitor efficiency, quality, and yield; prepare reports.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and R&D teams.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety practices.
• Lead process improvement projects from concept to implementation.
• Maintain process documentation including P&IDs and manuals.
• Stay updated on industry advancements and technologies.

Skills

Process Engineering

Fertilizer Production

Analytical Thinking

Team Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant producer of agricultural fertilizers, is seeking a dedicated Process Chemical Engineer to contribute to their operations in Welkom, Free State . This role is crucial for enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of their fertilizer production processes. The successful candidate will be involved in process design, optimization, troubleshooting, and implementing new technologies to meet market demands. You will play a key part in ensuring high-quality output while adhering to stringent environmental and safety regulations. This position offers a dynamic work environment where innovation and operational excellence are highly valued. A collaborative approach is essential, blending on-site process oversight with remote analysis and planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize chemical processes for fertilizer manufacturing (e.g., ammonia, urea, phosphates).
• Conduct process simulations and modeling to predict performance and identify improvements.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement effective solutions to maintain optimal plant operation.
• Analyze operational data to monitor efficiency, product quality, and yield, preparing detailed reports.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and R&D teams to ensure seamless operations and process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and implement best practices for waste reduction and emissions control.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement safety recommendations.
• Manage process improvement projects, from conception through to implementation.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, operating manuals, and safety procedures.
• Stay current with industry advancements and recommend new technologies for adoption.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on chemical manufacturing, preferably in fertilizer production.
• Proven experience with unit operations common in fertilizer manufacturing (e.g., granulation, ammonia synthesis, acid production).
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong understanding of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass/heat transfer.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Experience with process safety management (PSM) principles and HAZOP studies.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, essential for a hybrid work environment.
• Ability to analyze data and present findings clearly and concisely.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance and sustainability practices in the chemical industry.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is highly regarded.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits, and annual performance bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth within a stable industry are abundant.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility, while the role is physically based in Welkom, Free State , a key agricultural hub.