Senior Plant Operations Leader – Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Plant Operations Manager for a major chemical manufacturing facility in Polokwane. You will lead a diverse team, drive safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across production, maintenance, and environmental compliance.

The role requires a chemical/process engineering background with 8+ years in plant operations management, plus strong leadership and budgeting skills to manage costs and optimize performance in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• An advanced degree or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in plant operations management within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing complex chemical processes and ensuring operational safety.
• Proven track record in driving efficiency, cost reduction, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) regulations and best practices in chemical manufacturing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Experience with process control systems, automation, and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and make sound decisions under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day plant operations, including production, maintenance, safety, and environmental compliance.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve production targets, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop plant personnel, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, local environmental laws) and implement robust safety programs.
• Manage the plant budget, control operational costs, and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency gains.
• Oversee maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment performance and minimize downtime.
• Implement and manage quality control systems and procedures to ensure product consistency and compliance with specifications.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma, to enhance operational performance.
• Manage relationships with key suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, provide feedback, and support the professional development of the plant team.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Operations management

Safety compliance

Process engineering

Lean/Six Sigma

Team building

Analytical thinking

Decision making

Regulatory liaison

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Advanced degree or MBA

Tools

MES

Automation systems

ERP budgeting tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Plant Operations Manager for a major chemical manufacturing facility in Polokwane. You will lead a diverse team, drive safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across production, maintenance, and environmental compliance.

The role requires a chemical/process engineering background with 8+ years in plant operations management, plus strong leadership and budgeting skills to manage costs and optimize performance in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.