Senior Environmental Compliance Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Annual bonus

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Environmental Compliance Chemical Engineer for our Durban operations. The role focuses on ensuring processes meet SA and international environmental regulations, developing and monitoring EMS, and driving pollution prevention initiatives.

The successful candidate will lead EIAs, manage permits, and train staff on environmental practices, working closely with operations to embed sustainability in daily processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in environmental compliance within chemical/manufacturing.
• Thorough knowledge of SA environmental legislation (NEMA, MPRDA) and international standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement environmental compliance programs for chemical processes.
• Monitor emissions, effluents and waste to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Conduct EIAs for new projects and process modifications.
• Manage environmental permits and reporting.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with operations to integrate environmental considerations into design and operation.
• Stay updated on environmental legislation and best practices.

Skills

Environmental compliance

Regulatory knowledge

ISO 14001

Environmental monitoring

Impact assessments

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Report writing

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering

Job description

Our client, a prominent player in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking a dedicated Senior Environmental Compliance Chemical Engineer to join their essential operations team based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is crucial for ensuring that all chemical processes and manufacturing activities strictly adhere to national and international environmental regulations. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring environmental management systems, conducting impact assessments, and driving initiatives for pollution prevention and waste reduction. This is an on-site position requiring your full commitment to ensuring the highest standards of environmental stewardship at our facilities. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the company's environmental performance and maintaining its social license to operate. Your expertise will guide our strategies towards more sustainable chemical production, aligning operational needs with ecological preservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive environmental compliance programs for chemical manufacturing processes.
• Monitor emissions, effluents, and waste streams to ensure adherence to regulatory limits and internal standards.
• Conduct environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for new projects and process modifications.
• Manage the company's environmental permits and ensure timely renewal and compliance reporting.
• Investigate and report on any environmental incidents, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Collaborate with plant operations and engineering teams to integrate environmental considerations into process design and operation.
• Stay updated on evolving environmental legislation and best practices, advising management on necessary changes.
• Develop and deliver environmental training programs for employees at all levels.
• Lead or participate in environmental audits, both internal and external.
• Spearhead initiatives for waste minimization, resource efficiency, and pollution prevention.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in environmental compliance within the chemical or manufacturing industry.
• Thorough knowledge of South African environmental legislation (e.g., NEMA, MPRDA) and relevant international standards.
• Proven experience in environmental monitoring, impact assessment, and management systems (e.g., ISO 14001).
• Strong understanding of chemical processes and their associated environmental impacts.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and risk assessment skills.
• Proficiency in technical report writing and regulatory documentation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding operational environment.
• Commitment to upholding the highest ethical and professional standards.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional development. This role is based at our key facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. We are committed to providing a safe and stable working environment, with access to state-of-the-art technology and resources. You will have the chance to make a tangible impact on the company's environmental performance and contribute to sustainable practices. Additional benefits include annual bonuses, paid leave, and a supportive management team that prioritizes employee well-being and career advancement within the organization. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced engineer looking to specialize in environmental compliance within a leading chemical company.