Process Engineer - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Process Engineer position at our Richards Bay facility in KwaZulu-Natal. This on‑site role focuses on optimizing chemical processes to enhance yield, quality, and efficiency while maintaining safety and environmental standards.

You will work with plant operations, R&D, and quality assurance teams to drive continuous improvement, tackle process challenges, and lead small to medium‑sized projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum of 4–6 years of experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Solid understanding of chemical process principles, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) and environmental regulations.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS).
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize chemical manufacturing processes to improve yield, quality, and efficiency.
• Monitor process performance, collect data, and conduct statistical analysis to identify trends and deviations.
• Develop and execute process improvement projects, including scale-up activities and new product introductions.
• Troubleshoot process‑related issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and waste.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies (e.g., PSM).
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure reliable plant operation and effective equipment utilization.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and HAZOP studies.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and operating manuals.
• Support the commissioning and startup of new equipment and process modifications.
• Stay updated on advancements in chemical engineering technologies and best practices.

Skills

Process engineering

PSM

Regulatory compliance

Data analysis

Project management

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing company based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a dedicated and experienced Process Engineer. This is a critical on-site role focused on optimizing chemical processes, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency in production. You will be involved in the design, development, implementation, and troubleshooting of chemical manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will work closely with plant operations, R&D, and quality assurance teams to drive continuous improvement and maintain operational excellence. This position requires a strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, process safety management, and regulatory compliance within the chemical industry. We are looking for a hands‑on engineer who is passionate about chemical process optimization and committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility. The role demands excellent analytical skills, problem‑solving capabilities, and the ability to work effectively within a plant environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize chemical manufacturing processes to improve yield, quality, and efficiency.
• Monitor process performance, collect data, and conduct statistical analysis to identify trends and deviations.
• Develop and execute process improvement projects, including scale-up activities and new product introductions.
• Troubleshoot process‑related issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and waste.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies (e.g., PSM).
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure reliable plant operation and effective equipment utilization.
• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and HAZOP studies.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, SOPs, and operating manuals.
• Support the commissioning and startup of new equipment and process modifications.
• Stay updated on advancements in chemical engineering technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in process engineering within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Solid understanding of chemical process principles, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) and environmental regulations.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) is advantageous.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Ability to work effectively in a plant environment, including potential exposure to chemical hazards.
• Experience with project management and leading small to medium-sized projects.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within a stable and growing organization. This role is based at our client's facility in Richards Bay , providing a stable work environment. The company invests in employee development through continuous training programs and professional growth opportunities. Join a respected industry leader committed to safety, innovation, and sustainability in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal .