Process Operator - Chemical Plant

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 83,000 - 152,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Paid annual leave

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Our Mossel Bay client is seeking a Process Operator to monitor and control chemical processes, ensure product quality, and uphold safety and environmental standards. The role blends hands-on operation with opportunities to contribute to process improvements in a well-established facility.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 3 years’ experience in chemical manufacturing, a relevant technical qualification, and familiarity with DCS control systems.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical qualification preferred.
• Minimum 3 years as a Process Operator in chemical manufacturing.
• Experience reading process diagrams and SOPs.
• Proficient in operating control systems (DCS) and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor reactors, pumps, filters, and distillation columns per SOPs.
• Control temperature, pressure, flow, and chemical dosage.
• Perform routine equipment checks and report deviations.
• Collect samples and conduct basic QC tests.
• Respond to upsets and follow emergency procedures.
• Maintain production logs and incident records.
• Follow HSE policies, permits-to-work, and safety training.
• Assist maintenance in preventive tasks and process optimization.
• Maintain clean and organized work area and equipment.

Skills

Process monitoring

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

DCS operation

Reading diagrams

Communication

Troubleshooting

Physical ability

Education

High school diploma

NQF Level 4 in Chemical Operations

Tools

DCS systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the chemical processing industry, is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Process Operator to join their team. This role is essential for the safe and efficient operation of their plant in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring and controlling chemical processes, ensuring product quality, and adhering to strict safety and environmental regulations. This position offers a blend of hands-on operational work and the opportunity to contribute to process improvement initiatives within a well-established industrial facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor process equipment, including reactors, pumps, filters, and distillation columns, according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Control process parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, and chemical dosage to maintain optimal production conditions.
• Perform routine checks on equipment and process indicators, identifying and reporting any abnormalities or deviations.
• Collect process samples and conduct basic quality control tests to ensure product specifications are met.
• Respond to process upsets and alarms, implementing corrective actions as per emergency procedures.
• Maintain accurate production logs and records, documenting operational activities and any incidents.
• Adhere strictly to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and procedures, including permit-to-work systems.
• Participate in preventative maintenance activities and assist maintenance personnel as required.
• Contribute to process optimization efforts by identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements and waste reduction.
• Ensure the cleanliness and orderliness of the work area and process equipment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; a relevant technical qualification (e.g., NQF Level 4 in Chemical Operations) is advantageous.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Process Operator in a chemical manufacturing or similar industrial environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of chemical processes and plant operations.
• Proficiency in operating and monitoring control systems (e.g., DCS).
• Strong awareness of safety procedures and protocols in an industrial setting.
• Ability to read and interpret process diagrams and standard operating procedures.
• Good observational skills and attention to detail for monitoring process parameters.
• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for reporting and logging information.
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as climbing ladders, working in confined spaces (with appropriate training and certification), and lifting moderately heavy items.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive hourly wage and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical aid, a provident fund, and paid annual leave. This hybrid role allows for a balance between on-site operational duties and flexible remote work for reporting and administrative tasks. Employees benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities aimed at enhancing technical skills and career progression within the company. The company emphasizes a strong safety culture and provides all necessary personal protective equipment and safety training. This is a stable position within a growing industry in Mossel Bay, Western Cape .