Senior Plant Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement fund contribution

Annual performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Plant Chemical Engineer to oversee and optimize operations at a Richards Bay facility in KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on safe, efficient, and compliant chemical production with opportunities to lead improvements and mentor engineers.

The successful candidate will troubleshoot complex processes, implement enhancements, and work with production, maintenance, and safety teams to uphold high performance standards in a demanding industrial environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in plant operations and process engineering in a chemical setting.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex chemical processes.
• Strong knowledge of process safety management principles and practices.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant performance data to identify efficiency and quality improvements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational problems, performing root cause analyses.
• Develop and implement process modifications to enhance safety and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations and company policies.
• Lead and participate in PHAs and implement recommended safety measures.
• Provide technical support to operators and maintenance personnel.
• Oversee and manage small to medium capital projects.
• Mentor junior chemical engineers and technical staff.
• Collaborate with other departments to maintain production and efficiency.
• Develop and update SOPs and training materials.

Skills

Chemical Engineering

PSM / Process Safety Management

Data analysis

Leadership

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process control systems

Instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the industrial chemical sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Plant Chemical Engineer to oversee and optimize operations at their state-of-the-art facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role focuses on ensuring the efficient, safe, and environmentally sound operation of our client's chemical production units. The successful candidate will be responsible for troubleshooting complex operational issues, implementing process improvements, and mentoring junior engineering staff. You will work closely with production, maintenance, and safety teams to maintain high standards of performance and compliance. This position offers a significant opportunity to impact plant efficiency and contribute to the strategic goals of a leading chemical manufacturer. The role requires a hands‑on approach, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to excellence in a demanding industrial environment. You will be a key contributor to the operational success and continuous improvement initiatives of the plant.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant performance data to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, yield, and product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational problems, conducting root cause analysis for recurring issues.
• Develop and implement process modifications and upgrades to enhance plant performance and safety.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety regulations and company policies.
• Lead and participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and implement recommended safety measures.
• Provide technical support and guidance to plant operators and maintenance personnel.
• Oversee and manage small to medium-sized capital improvement projects.
• Mentor and develop junior chemical engineers and technical staff.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless production and operational efficiency.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training materials.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in plant operations and process engineering within the chemical industry.
• Proven experience in troubleshooting complex chemical processes and implementing effective solutions.
• Strong understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles and practices.
• Experience with process control systems and instrumentation is essential.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation to drive process improvements.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Experience in the fertilizer or related chemical manufacturing industries is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a substantial retirement fund contribution, and an annual performance bonus. This role also provides excellent opportunities for career progression within a large, stable organization. You will be part of a safety-focused culture that prioritizes employee well‑being and professional development. Opportunities for advanced training and exposure to diverse operational challenges are abundant. Join a team dedicated to operational excellence and contribute to a vital industry. We offer a challenging yet rewarding work environment where your expertise is valued.