Senior Chemical Engineer - Project Management

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement fund

Generous paid time off

Professional development

Life insurance

Central Bloemfontein location

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer with strong project leadership to join our team in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role requires management of chemical engineering projects from conception through completion, ensuring on-time delivery within budget and top safety standards.

Hybrid work allows on-site focus during critical phases with planning and reporting done remotely. The ideal candidate should have a solid chemical engineering background, proven project management

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering; Master's degree or PMP certification is a strong advantage.
• Minimum 8 years of chemical engineering experience, with at least 3 years in a project management or project engineering role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing capital projects in the chemical or process industry.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (MS Project or Primavera).

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of chemical engineering projects.
• Develop project scopes, objectives, budgets, and timelines in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Manage project resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials.
• Oversee the design, procurement, installation, and commissioning of chemical process equipment and systems.
• Ensure all projects comply with relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks and issues, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate with engineering, operations, procurement, and construction teams.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and clients.
• Manage vendor and contractor relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
• Conduct post-project reviews to capture lessons learned and identify areas for future improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Team coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

PMP certification

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Chemical Engineer with strong project management capabilities to join their team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role will operate under a hybrid model, requiring a balance of on-site presence for critical project phases and team collaboration, with remote flexibility for planning, reporting, and administrative tasks. You will be responsible for managing chemical engineering projects from conception through to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards. This includes planning, executing, and monitoring project activities, coordinating with internal teams and external stakeholders, and resolving technical challenges. The ideal candidate will possess a robust technical background in chemical engineering combined with proven leadership and project management expertise. You will play a key role in expanding and improving our client's manufacturing capabilities. The Bloemfontein location serves as a central hub for operations, and this role offers a significant opportunity for career advancement within a growing organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of chemical engineering projects.
• Develop project scopes, objectives, budgets, and timelines in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Manage project resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials.
• Oversee the design, procurement, installation, and commissioning of chemical process equipment and systems.
• Ensure all projects comply with relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks and issues, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate with engineering, operations, procurement, and construction teams.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and clients.
• Manage vendor and contractor relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
• Conduct post-project reviews to capture lessons learned and identify areas for future improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering. A Master's degree or PMP certification is a strong advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical engineering, with at least 3 years in a project management or project engineering role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing capital projects in the chemical or process industry.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, unit operations, and plant design.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to effectively manage hybrid work arrangements, ensuring productivity both on-site and remotely.
• Familiarity with risk management and quality assurance processes.
• Must be adept at stakeholder management and communication.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting your significant experience in both chemical engineering and project leadership.
• The hybrid work model provides a desirable blend of on-site engagement and remote flexibility.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• A retirement fund with employer contributions is provided.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave, is offered.
• Opportunities for professional development, including project management training and engineering certifications, are supported.
• Life insurance and other statutory benefits are included.
• The Bloemfontein location provides access to a central region, and the company promotes a collaborative and results-oriented work culture.
• Potential performance-based incentives may be applicable.