Senior Project Engineer - Chemical Facilities

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive benefits package

Performance bonuses

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Senior Project Engineer to lead capital projects for new chemical facilities and major upgrades in Randburg, Gauteng. The role covers concept through to handover, ensuring on-time delivery within budget and high safety and quality standards.

Ideal candidates have 10+ years in chemical/process industries, strong PM skills, and EPCM experience. PrEng or PMP desirable; hybrid work model based in Randburg.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in project engineering and management, with chemical/process industry focus.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale capital projects.
• Strong knowledge of chemical process design and construction methods.
• Experience with EPCM processes and project cost control.
• Proficiency with MS Project or Primavera.
• PrEng or PMP certification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and completion of capital projects for chemical facilities.
• Develop scope, budgets, and schedules aligned to business needs.
• Manage project teams of engineers, contractors, and suppliers.
• Oversee detailed engineering design, equipment procurement, and construction.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage project risks and mitigation strategies.
• Monitor progress, report status, and manage changes.
• Facilitate communication among stakeholders and partners.
• Conduct reviews and lessons learned for continuous improvement.
• Ensure commissioning and start-up of facilities or upgrades.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

PrEng or PMP desirable

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Cost control

EPCM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding provider of industrial chemical solutions, is looking for a seasoned Senior Project Engineer to lead and manage capital projects for new chemical facilities and major upgrades in the Randburg, Gauteng area. This role is pivotal in overseeing all phases of the project lifecycle, from initial concept development and feasibility studies through to detailed design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover. You will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of safety and quality. The ideal candidate possesses strong project management acumen, a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles, and experience managing complex industrial projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and completion of capital projects related to chemical facility design and construction.
• Develop project scope, objectives, budgets, and schedules in alignment with business requirements.
• Manage project teams, including engineers, contractors, and suppliers, to ensure successful project delivery.
• Oversee the detailed engineering design, procurement of equipment, and construction activities.
• Ensure projects comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage project risks, identify mitigation strategies, and resolve issues as they arise.
• Monitor project progress, report on status, and manage changes effectively.
• Facilitate effective communication among all project stakeholders, including internal departments and external partners.
• Conduct project reviews and lessons learned sessions to drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure successful commissioning and start-up of new facilities or upgraded systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering field from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in project engineering and management, with a significant portion focused on chemical or process industry projects.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale capital projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of chemical process design, equipment, and construction methodologies.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and cost control techniques.
• In-depth knowledge of EPCM (Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management) processes.
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with safety regulations and best practices in industrial construction.
• Professional Engineering (PrEng) or PMP certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive executive benefits package, performance bonuses, and opportunities for career advancement. Professional development is strongly supported through training and challenging project assignments. This role operates on a hybrid model, based in Randburg, Gauteng , allowing for flexibility between on-site project oversight and remote planning and reporting.