Production Chemical Engineer - Polymer Manufacturing

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is currently seeking a Production Chemical Engineer for an on-site role in Port Elizabeth. You will lead daily production activities, optimize processes, and ensure safe, high-quality output of polymer products.

The ideal candidate has a chemical engineering background with polymer science experience, strong problem-solving skills, and a hands-on leadership style to drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Engineering.
• 4+ years in production or process engineering in polymer manufacturing.
• Solid understanding of polymerization processes and polymer properties.
• Experience with plant operations, process control, and troubleshooting in manufacturing.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Familiarity with process safety principles and risk management.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production activities to meet output targets and quality standards.
• Monitor process parameters and equipment performance for optimal operation.
• Troubleshoot production issues including quality deviations and equipment malfunctions.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Develop and update SOPs for production processes.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with maintenance, quality control, and R&D teams to support production goals.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and inefficiencies.
• Train and mentor junior operators and technicians on process operations and safety.
• Participate in PHAs and risk assessments.

Skills

Process engineering

Polymer science

Lean Six Sigma

Quality systems

Safety compliance

Data analysis

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Polymer Science/Engineering degree

Tools

Process control systems

PHAs & risk assessment tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced polymer production, is seeking a proactive and results-driven Production Chemical Engineer for their facility in Port Elizabeth . This role is strictly on-site, demanding a hands-on approach to managing and optimizing daily production operations. You will be responsible for ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality output of polymer products, troubleshooting production issues, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of polymerization processes, material science, and plant operations. This is a critical role requiring strong leadership potential and a commitment to operational excellence in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage daily production activities to meet output targets and quality standards.
• Monitor process parameters and equipment performance to ensure optimal operation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve production-related issues, including quality deviations and equipment malfunctions.
• Implement and manage continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.
• Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for production processes.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with maintenance, quality control, and R&D teams to support production goals.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for optimization.
• Train and mentor junior operators and technicians on process operations and safety protocols.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and risk assessments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science/Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a production or process engineering role within the polymer manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of polymerization processes (e.g., addition, condensation) and polymer properties.
• Experience with plant operations, process control, and troubleshooting in a manufacturing setting.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001).
• Familiarity with process safety principles and risk management.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions in a timely manner.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement contributions. You will have the opportunity to grow within a well-established company with a strong presence in Port Elizabeth . We provide a challenging yet rewarding work environment with ample opportunities for skill development and career progression in the polymer industry.