Senior Chemical Engineer - Water Treatment Technologies

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Professional development

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer to join a Pretoria-based team delivering advanced water treatment projects for municipal and industrial clients. You will contribute to the design, optimization, and implementation of RO, UF, ion exchange, and advanced oxidation processes within a hybrid work environment.

You will lead treatability studies, pilot plant trials, mass and energy balances, and process simulations, while mentoring junior engineers and supporting project management.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in Chemical Engineering; Masters preferred.
• 7+ years in water/wastewater process design.
• Knowledge of RO/UF/MF/NF membranes and ion exchange.

Responsibilities

• Design water and wastewater treatment systems (RO, UF, ion exchange, AOP).
• Conduct treatability studies and pilot plant trials.
• Perform mass and energy balances and process simulations.
• Prepare P&IDs, equipment specs and design packages.
• Provide technical oversight during construction and commissioning.
• Collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and stay updated with best practices.

Skills

Project management

Client-facing

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

AquaChem

GWB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm in sustainable water solutions, is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer to join their innovative team in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role is integral to the development, design, and implementation of advanced water treatment processes for municipal and industrial applications. You will play a key role in optimizing existing technologies and pioneering new methods to address complex water scarcity and quality challenges. The position involves significant client interaction, project management, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. We are looking for a candidate with a strong background in chemical engineering principles applied to water chemistry, membrane technologies, desalination, and wastewater treatment. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to delivering sustainable and cost-effective solutions. You will contribute to high-impact projects that are vital for environmental protection and public health in Gauteng and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and engineer water and wastewater treatment systems, including RO, UF, ion exchange, and advanced oxidation processes.
• Conduct treatability studies, pilot plant trials, and process optimization for various water sources.
• Perform mass balances, energy balances, and process simulations for water treatment facilities.
• Develop P&IDs, equipment specifications, and detailed design packages.
• Provide technical oversight during the construction and commissioning phases of projects.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in existing water treatment plants.
• Collaborate with clients, project managers, and other engineering disciplines.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in water treatment.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and water quality standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in water and wastewater treatment process design and engineering.
• Strong knowledge of membrane technologies (RO, UF, MF, NF), ion exchange, and disinfection methods.
• Proficiency in water chemistry, water quality parameters, and relevant standards.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., AquaChem, GWB, or equivalent).
• Familiarity with relevant environmental regulations and permitting processes.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with client-facing experience.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) or ECSA registration is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus and a comprehensive benefits plan covering medical aid and retirement.
• Professional development opportunities, including further training and conference attendance, are readily available.
• Employees enjoy a generous leave policy and a supportive team environment.
• This hybrid role offers a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, contributing to impactful projects in the crucial field of water resource management in Pretoria.