Process Controller

Elchemie; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 201,000 - 279,000; Full time

Job summary

Elchemie in Johannesburg is seeking an Operator to manage water treatment processes and related plant systems. You will operate and adjust equipment, monitor SCADA, record data, and support maintenance activities to ensure continuous, compliant production.

The role requires a Matric and a relevant engineering or water/ sanitation diploma, 2+ years in water treatment, and a valid Code B license. Shift work and cross-site responsibilities may apply.

Qualifications

• Matric/technical diploma is required.
• 2+ years experience in water treatment or similar operations.
• Experience operating SCADA systems preferred.
• Valid Code B driver’s license.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and plant software.
• Willingness for shift work and site-based tasks.
• Strong problem-solving and fault reporting skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate and adjust water treatment systems to meet production and quality targets.
• Record plant data including meter readings, chemical usage, CIP records, and downtime logs.
• Monitor functionality of pumps, valves, and fittings and perform basic troubleshooting.
• Perform limited maintenance on process equipment and support pump/valve/dosing unit upkeep.
• Monitor and record water sampling results and ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Maintain safe storage and handling of chemicals and follow PPE procedures.
• Collaborate with maintenance and other departments for process upgrades or changes.
• Ensure housekeeping and cleanliness of plant areas are maintained.

Skills

Matric (Grade 12)

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Diploma in Chemical Engineering

Water & Sanitation related diploma

SCADA operations

Drivers License (Code B)

MS Office & plant software

Shift work fitness

Troubleshooting & maintenance

Water sampling/testing

ISO 9001:2015 knowledge

Team player & communication

Education

Matric

Diploma in Engineering or Water & Sanitation

Tools

SCADA systems

Operational software

Job description

What youll be doing

• Process Operations :
• Operate and adjust water treatment systems to meet production and quality targets.
• Start up and shut down equipment in line with operational requirements.
• Monitor functionality of pumps, valves, and fittings.
• Identify and perform basic troubleshooting on equipment to restore operation.
• Record plant data including meter readings, chemical usage, CIP records, and downtime logs.
• Report quality deviations or performance issues promptly.
• Maintenance:
• Perform limited maintenance, including process related and limited mechanical work.
• Support maintenance activities for pumps, valves, dosing units, and SCADA systems.
• Monitor and maintain consistent chemical dosing to ensure process stability and reliability.
• Maintain a clean and organised plant environment, including the work area, control room, and communal areas, and ensure all areas are left tidy after work is completed.
• Record and track process maintenance activities and equipment status for reporting and follow up.
• Monitoring & Quality Control:
• Conduct daily and weekly water sampling and testing.
• Record all test results and monitor trends to ensure water quality meets production standards.
• Safety, Compliance & Environmental Practices:
• Adhere to all site specific safety, environmental and operational policies and procedures.
• Report hazards, incidents, and near misses immediately.
• Maintain correct chemical storage and handling practices.
• Monitor compliance with safety and environmental procedures and document any incidents or observations.
• Stock and Consumable Control:
• Ensure all chemical and consumable usage is accurately recorded, monitor stock levels, and flag variances or shortages promptly.
• Collaboration & Support:
• Assist fellow operators and maintenance technicians as required.
• Provide operational input during plant upgrades or modifications.
• Contribute to team problem-solving to ensure production and quality targets are met.
• Collaborate closely with all departments to ensure seamless operational support and effective cross-functional communication.

What youll need

• Matric (Grade 12 or equivalent) Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Water and Sanitation, or related field.
• Relevant training and certifications in water treatment system operations.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in water treatment processes or similar operational fields.
• Experience operating SCADA systems for monitoring and controlling plant processes is preferred.
• Valid Code B (or higher) Drivers License.
• Intermediate computer literacy (Microsoft Office Suite and operational software).
• Physically and mentally fit for shift work.
• Completion of site-specific mandatory training as required under the applicable legislative framework.
• Solid understanding of water treatment processes, including filtration, chemical dosing, and flow control.
• Competent in operating, monitoring, and adjusting plant equipment, including pumps, valves, filters, dosing systems, and SCADA controlled operations.
• Ability to perform basic mechanical maintenance and equipment repairs (e.g., helix pipes).
• Knowledge of preventative and corrective maintenance practices.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for plant operations and SCADA systems.
• Ability to conduct water sampling, testing, and adjustments to maintain quality standards.
• Adherence to the applicable legislative requirements ISO 9001:2015 regulations, policies and procedures.
• Correct use of PPE and safe handling of chemicals.
• Problem-solving mindset with proactive fault reporting.
• Clear and professional communication with supervisors and colleagues.
• Team player, honest, trustworthy, punctual, and committed to quality work.

What is in it for you?

Remuneration varies between location (R18 000 - R25 000 p.m.) depending on qualifications and experience

A Few Things to Know

• Shift work will be required
• Must be willing to work at other sites as operationally required.
• Must comply with all company safety, environmental, and operational rules, policies and procedures.