Senior Chemical Engineer - Project Execution

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Annual performance bonus

Training allowances

Company-sponsored social events

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a leading industrial chemicals company, invites applications for a Senior Chemical Engineer in Pretoria. You will lead capital project delivery from design through commissioning, coordinating multi-disciplinary teams to ensure safe, on-time, on-budget execution.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering and at least 6 years of project management experience in chemicals or processing industries, with strong P&ID, safety, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in chemical engineering project management and execution.
• Proven track record delivering capital projects in chemicals or process industries.
• Strong knowledge of P&ID development, equipment sizing and process safety management.
• Proficiency with project management software and process simulation tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the engineering aspects of capital projects from concept to commissioning.
• Develop project scopes, specifications and engineering deliverables per project requirements.
• Coordinate with internal engineering teams, external consultants and contractors.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable codes and standards.
• Oversee vendor document reviews and equipment specifications.
• Support commissioning and start-up activities and troubleshoot issues.
• Manage project schedules and budgets for engineering activities.
• Conduct site visits and inspections to monitor progress and quality.
• Prepare project status reports and technical documentation.
• Promote and enforce safety protocols throughout the project lifecycle.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Risk assessment

Team coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the industrial chemicals sector, is actively seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer with a strong focus on project execution to join their team in Pretoria. This role is central to the successful delivery of capital projects, from the initial design phase through to commissioning and handover. You will be responsible for managing engineering deliverables, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing chemical engineering projects, a deep understanding of project management methodologies, and excellent communication skills. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant infrastructure development in Pretoria and gain exposure to a wide range of challenging projects within a reputable organization. You will play a key part in the company's growth strategy by ensuring the effective implementation of new facilities and upgrades. The role requires a proactive, results-oriented individual who thrives in a project-driven environment and is committed to upholding the highest standards of engineering excellence and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the engineering aspects of capital projects, from concept to commissioning.
• Develop project scopes, specifications, and engineering deliverables in accordance with project requirements.
• Coordinate and liaunt with internal engineering teams, external consultants, and contractors.
• Ensure all project designs comply with relevant engineering standards, codes, and regulations.
• Oversee the technical review of vendor documentation and equipment specifications.
• Support commissioning and start-up activities, troubleshooting any issues that arise.
• Manage project schedules and budgets for engineering-related activities.
• Conduct site visits and inspections to ensure project progress and quality.
• Prepare project status reports and technical documentation.
• Promote and enforce safety protocols throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical engineering project management and execution.
• Demonstrated experience in managing capital projects within the chemical or process industry.
• Strong understanding of P&ID development, equipment sizing, and process safety management.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project) and simulation tools is a plus.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet project deadlines.
• Familiarity with relevant South African engineering codes and standards.
• Experience with HAZOP studies and risk assessments.
• Must be a team player with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plan, and annual performance bonuses. This role provides significant opportunities for professional development, hands‑on project experience, and career advancement within a leading industrial company. The position is based in Pretoria with a hybrid work model, offering flexibility and a good work-life balance. Employees will have access to cutting‑edge projects and a supportive team environment. Additional benefits include training allowances and company-sponsored social events.