About the Role
Our client, a major industrial chemicals producer, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Senior Chemical Plant Engineer to oversee the operational integrity and efficiency of their facilities in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role demands a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, focusing on maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving complex chemical processing equipment and systems. You will be responsible for ensuring plant reliability, safety, and compliance with all regulatory standards. The ideal candidate is a proactive leader with a proven ability to manage engineering projects, optimize plant performance, and mentor junior engineers. This is a key position contributing to the sustained success of our client's operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide engineering leadership for the safe and efficient operation of chemical processing plants.
- Oversee the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of critical plant equipment, including reactors, pumps, heat exchangers, and distillation columns.
- Develop and implement preventative and predictive maintenance strategies to maximize equipment uptime and lifespan.
- Conduct root cause analyses for equipment failures and process upsets, implementing corrective actions.
- Manage engineering projects related to plant upgrades, modifications, and new installations.
- Ensure all plant operations comply with stringent safety, environmental, and quality standards.
- Collaborate with operations, safety, and maintenance teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Review and approve process changes, management of change (MOC) documentation, and P&IDs.
- Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
- Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and ensure recommendations are implemented.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution.
- A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in a chemical manufacturing or industrial plant environment.
- Proven expertise in troubleshooting and maintaining complex chemical processing equipment.
- Strong understanding of process control systems, instrumentation, and safety instrumented systems (SIS).
- Demonstrated experience in project management, including scope definition, budgeting, and scheduling.
- In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and regulatory compliance (e.g., OSHA, EPA).
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
- Experience with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) is beneficial.
Benefits
- Our client offers a competitive salary package, annual bonus opportunities, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and ample paid time off.
- Extensive opportunities for professional development and career progression within a large organization are available.
This role requires full-time on-site presence in Vereeniging, Gauteng , to ensure optimal plant oversight and operational support.