Senior Chemical Engineer - Manufacturing Optimization

Placements24; Durban; Sur place; ZAR 900 000 - 1 300 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer for an on-site role in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, to lead process optimization and safety initiatives in a busy specialty chemicals facility. You will collaborate with plant operators, maintenance and R&D to drive continuous improvement, scale-up new processes, mentor junior engineers, and ensure compliance with EHS and quality standards.

This hands-on position rewards practical problem solving, data driven decisions and strong communication across

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from a recognized university.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in chemical manufacturing or process engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in process optimization, lean manufacturing principles, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Strong understanding of chemical plant operations, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis tools is essential.

Responsabilités

• Analyze and optimize existing manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize waste.
• Develop and implement process improvements using data‑driven methodologies and SPC.
• Troubleshoot production issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Lead process safety management initiatives, including HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations on capital projects and equipment upgrades.
• Develop and maintain SOPs and process documentation.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and plant personnel on process best practices.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company EHS policies.
• Contribute to the design and scale‑up of new products and processes.

Connaissances

Process optimization

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Data analysis

Project management

Communication

Team collaboration

Formation

Bachelors or Masters in Chemical Engineering

Outils

Process simulation software

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the specialty chemicals sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to join their established operations in **Durban**. This is an on‑site position, offering a unique opportunity to work directly within their advanced manufacturing facility in **KwaZulu‑Natal**. You will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency. The role involves close collaboration with plant operators, maintenance teams, and R&D personnel to enhance product quality and operational performance. We are looking for a hands‑on engineer with a strong analytical mindset and a proven ability to implement effective solutions in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining our competitive edge and fostering innovation within the local chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce cycle times, and minimize waste.
• Develop and implement process improvements using data‑driven methodologies and statistical process control (SPC).
• Troubleshoot production issues, identify root causes, and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Lead process safety management (PSM) initiatives, including HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with the engineering and operations teams on capital projects and equipment upgrades.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
• Train and mentor junior engineers and plant personnel on process best practices.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company EHS policies.
• Contribute to the design and scale‑up of new products and processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from a recognized university.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in chemical manufacturing or process engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in process optimization, lean manufacturing principles, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Strong understanding of chemical plant operations, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and data analysis tools is essential.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Must be willing to work on‑site in **Durban**, **KwaZulu‑Natal**.
• Experience with batch processing and reaction engineering is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive base salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, a retirement fund, and performance‑based bonuses. Employees have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, including advanced technical training and leadership programs. You will be part of a supportive and collaborative team environment within a company committed to operational excellence and employee well‑being. The **Durban** location provides access to a vibrant industrial hub, and the company encourages a healthy work‑life balance. Regular performance reviews and opportunities for career advancement within the organization are standard. You will work with cutting‑edge technology and contribute to significant improvements in chemical manufacturing processes in the **KwaZulu‑Natal** region.