Senior Plant Operator - Chemical Processing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Shift allowances

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton seeks a Senior Plant Operator to safely run complex chemical processing equipment, monitor parameters, and maintain production targets while upholding safety and environmental standards. You will mentor junior operators, perform routine checks, respond to alarms, and collaborate with engineering and maintenance to keep operations running smoothly.

The role requires a strong background in chemical processes, excellent troubleshooting, and the ability to work rotating

Qualifications

• Minimum N3 Certificate or equivalent qualification in Chemical Engineering, Process Technology, or related field.
• At least 7 years of experience as a Plant Operator in chemical processing or related industrial environment.
• Experience operating complex process equipment (reactors, distillation columns, pumps, control valves).
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, safety procedures, and hazard management.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to plant operations.
• Ability to read and interpret PFDs and P&IDs.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills; able to work in a team.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.
• Must reside in or be able to reliably commute to Sandton, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor complex chemical processing equipment according to SOPs.
• Control parameters: temperature, pressure, flow, levels to meet targets and specs.
• Perform routine inspections and minor maintenance; report malfunctions.
• Respond to process upsets, alarms, and emergencies.
• Maintain logs of operational data, production quantities, and incidents.
• Adhere to safety, health, environmental regulations and policies.
• Assist in training junior operators and mentoring.
• Participate in process improvements and provide feedback on efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance to resolve issues.

Skills

N3 Certificate (qualification)

7+ years experience

Chemical plant ops

PFD & P&ID literacy

Troubleshooting

Safety awareness

Shift work

Team player

Education

N3 Certificate or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the chemical processing industry, is seeking an experienced and highly reliable Senior Plant Operator to join their facility in Sandton, Gauteng . This is a critical hands‑on role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of complex chemical processing equipment and systems. You will be involved in monitoring process parameters, controlling equipment, performing routine checks, and responding to operational deviations to ensure optimal production output while maintaining the highest safety and environmental standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of chemical processes, excellent troubleshooting skills, and a proactive approach to problem‑solving. This position requires a dedicated individual who can work effectively within a team and independently, ensuring the smooth running of our plant operations. As a Senior Operator, you will also be expected to guide and mentor junior operators, contributing to the overall skill development of the team. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to advance their career in a challenging and rewarding industrial environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Operate and monitor complex chemical processing equipment and plant systems according to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Control process parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow, and levels to meet production targets and quality specifications. Conduct regular equipment inspections, perform minor maintenance tasks, and report any malfunctions or deviations. Respond promptly and effectively to process upsets, alarms, and emergency situations. Maintain accurate logs of operational data, production quantities, and any incidents. Ensure adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies. Assist in the training and development of junior plant operators. Participate in process improvement initiatives and provide feedback on operational efficiency. Perform routine sampling and testing of process materials as required. Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams to resolve operational issues.

Requirements

Minimum of a N3 Certificate or equivalent qualification in Chemical Engineering, Process Technology, or a related field. At least 7 years of experience as a Plant Operator in a chemical processing or related industrial environment. Proven experience operating and controlling complex process equipment, including reactors, distillation columns, pumps, and control valves. Strong understanding of chemical processes, safety procedures, and hazard management. Excellent troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills related to plant operations. Ability to read and interpret process flow diagrams (PFDs) and P&IDs. Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team. Must be able to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends. Must reside in or be able to reliably commute to Sandton, Gauteng . Knowledge of environmental compliance regulations is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and responsibility. Benefits include a comprehensive medical aid scheme, a provident fund, and shift allowances. Opportunities for professional development, further training, and career advancement within a leading chemical company are provided. Our client is committed to providing a safe and supportive work environment and invests in employee well‑being. This role offers the chance to work with advanced chemical processing technologies and contribute to critical industrial operations.