SUMMARY:
-
POSITION INFO:
Job Overview We are seeking a qualified Chemical Engineer to join a leading mining and manufacturing operation in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing production processes, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, and managing production personnel within a manufacturing environment. This role offers a clear succession path into a Production Manager position for a high-performing individual who demonstrates strong technical expertise, leadership capability, and operational excellence. Key Responsibilities Monitor, evaluate, andoptimizemanufacturing and production processes to improve efficiency, productivity, and product quality. Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards. Investigate process deviations, production issues, and equipment failures, implementing corrective and preventative actions. Develop and maintain process documentation, operating procedures, and technical reports. Coordinate daily production activities to ensure operational targets are achieved. Collaborate with maintenance, quality, engineering, and operations teams to ensure efficient plant performance. Monitor production costs and identify opportunities for process improvements, waste reduction, and operational efficiencies. Drive continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. Manage, supervise, train, and develop production personnel. Conduct performance management, coaching, and leadership development of production teams. Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Support strategic operational initiatives and contribute to long-term production planning. Minimum Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering. Minimum 5–8 years' experience within a chemical manufacturing, mineral processing, mining, metallurgical, or heavy industrial processing environment. Minimum 2–3 years' experience supervising or managing production personnel. Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, process optimization, and production management. Knowledge of health, safety, environmental, and quality management systems. Experience with production reporting, process analysis, root cause investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives. Strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management abilities. Proficient in Microsoft Office and manufacturing\/process management systems. Advantageous Experience within mining, mineral processing, industrial chemicals, metallurgy, specialty chemicals, coatings, polymers, or related heavy manufacturing sectors. Exposure to ISO Quality Management Systems. Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies. Professional registration with ECSA or a relevant engineering body will be advantageous. Experience managing large production teams within a manufacturing environment. Competencies Leadership and people management Production and operations management Process optimization and continuous improvement Strategic thinking and decision-making Analytical and problem-solving skills Production planning and coordination Strong communication and stakeholder management Quality and safety focused Results-driven with strong attention to detail Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Career Growth Opportunity This position is ideally suited to a Chemical Engineer seeking long-term career growth into a Production Manager role and offers the opportunity to develop both technical and operational leadership skills within a dynamic mining and manufacturing environment.
