Senior Chemical Engineer - Fertilizers

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and retirement benefits

Generous annual leave

Training and development opportunities

Accommodation assistance may be avail.

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for a leading fertilizer producer based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead process optimization, troubleshoot deviations, and drive safety and environmental stewardship across large-scale fertilizer units.

The role requires a BEng in Chemical Engineering, at least 6 years in the chemical industry with fertilizer experience, and proficiency in process simulation tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in the chemical industry, with fertilizer production experience.
• Solid understanding of chemical processes relevant to fertilizer manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize daily fertilizer production operations for target performance.
• Troubleshoot process deviations, identify root causes, implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Lead process improvement initiatives to boost efficiency, energy savings, and product yield/quality.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including O&Ps, P&IDs, and balances.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic analyses for process modifications or upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations on shutdowns and turnarounds.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical support to operators.
• Evaluate new technologies or equipment to enhance plant capabilities.
• Participate in PHAs and implement recommendations.

Skills

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Analytical thinking

Communication

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of agricultural chemicals, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to enhance their production facility located in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is vital for ensuring the efficient, safe, and environmentally sound operation of fertilizer production units. The Senior Chemical Engineer will be responsible for process optimization, troubleshooting, and leading improvement projects to maximize output and maintain product quality. We are looking for a dedicated professional with a strong background in industrial chemical processes, particularly in the fertilizer sector, who can contribute to operational excellence and sustainable manufacturing practices. This position requires a hands‑on approach and a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles applied in a large‑scale industrial setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize the daily operations of fertilizer production units, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to production targets.
• Troubleshoot process deviations, identify root causes of operational issues, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Lead process improvement initiatives aimed at increasing efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and improving product yield and quality.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including operating procedures, P&IDs, and material/energy balances.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic analyses for proposed process modifications or upgrades.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to plan and execute plant shutdowns and turnarounds.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical support to plant operators.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment to enhance plant capabilities.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in the chemical industry, with specific experience in fertilizer production (e.g., ammonia, urea, phosphates).
• Solid understanding of chemical processes relevant to fertilizer manufacturing.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis tools.Strong knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and environmental regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with diverse teams.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing priorities effectively.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) is an advantage.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and annual bonus.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Company-provided accommodation assistance may be available.
• Stable and secure employment within a leading industrial group.
• Exposure to large-scale industrial operations and advanced process technologies.
• Supportive and safety-conscious work environment.