Senior Petrochemical Engineering Lead | Hybrid Role & Impact

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Chemical Engineer to lead project management and implementation of capital projects and process upgrades in Randburg, Gauteng. You will oversee scope, budgets, schedules, and safety compliance, coordinating with engineering consultants and vendors.

The ideal candidate has at least 6 years in chemical process engineering, with 3+ years in PM roles, strong leadership, and excellent communication to drive projects to successful completion.

Qualifications

• 6+ years in chemical process engineering.
• 3+ years in project management or project engineering roles.
• Proven experience in managing industrial capital projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage full lifecycle of capital projects from feasibility to commissioning.
• Develop scope, budgets, and schedules.
• Coordinate with engineering consultants, contractors, and suppliers.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Interface with operations and maintenance for integration.
• Prepare status reports for management.
• Review designs, equipment specs, and proposals.
• Manage project documentation and handover.
• Contribute to value engineering and cost optimization.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

MS Project

Job description

Chemical Engineer - Project Management & Implementation

Our client, a diversified industrial group, is seeking a proactive Chemical Engineer with strong project management capabilities to oversee the implementation of capital projects and process upgrades in Randburg, Gauteng . This role requires a blend of technical expertise in chemical processes and practical skills in project execution, from conceptualization through to commissioning. You will be responsible for defining project scope, managing timelines and budgets, coordinating with engineering contractors, and ensuring safe and successful project completion. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing industrial projects, possess excellent organizational skills, and demonstrate strong leadership potential. This is a critical position that contributes directly to the company's growth and operational efficiency. You will work closely with various stakeholders, including operations, procurement, and external vendors, to deliver projects on time and within budget. The position offers significant responsibility and the opportunity to drive impactful change.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of capital projects and process improvement initiatives, from feasibility studies to commissioning.
• Develop project scope, objectives, detailed plans, budgets, and schedules.
• Coordinate and oversee the work of engineering consultants, contractors, and equipment suppliers.
• Ensure projects are designed and executed in compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks and issues, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Liaise with operations and maintenance teams to ensure smooth integration of new/modified processes.
• Prepare project status reports and present updates to management and stakeholders.
• Conduct technical reviews of designs, equipment specifications, and proposals.
• Manage project documentation and ensure proper handover upon completion.
• Contribute to value engineering and cost optimization efforts for projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with at least 3 years in project management or project engineering roles.
• Proven experience in managing industrial capital projects, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, and execution.
• Strong understanding of chemical process design, equipment, and plant operations.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools (e.g., MS Project).
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.