Overview
Plant Operator Jobs in Eastern Cape, South Africa at Confidential Careers
Title: Plant Operator
Company: Confidential Careers
Location: Eastern Cape, South Africa
Job Title: Chemical Production Operator
Job Summary:
The Chemical Production Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring chemical production processes using a Distributed Control System (DCS) within a water treatment and desalination plant. The role includes managing thermic fluid heaters, ensuring consistent water quality output, maintaining chemical dosing systems, and responding to alarms and process deviations. The operator must follow strict safety, environmental, and operational standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Operate and monitor all systems through the DCS including chemical dosing, thermic heaters, RO systems, and other utility equipment.
Adjust parameters to optimize water treatment and desalination processes and maintain quality standards.
Monitor performance of thermic heaters, check fuel levels, control temperatures, and ensure heat transfer efficiency.
Maintain accurate records of plant operations, chemical usage, and shift activities.
Perform chemical sampling and basic field testing to verify water and chemical quality.
Coordinate with maintenance for routine and corrective actions on pumps, valves, heaters, and instrumentation.
Respond quickly to system alarms, equipment malfunctions, or process abnormalities.
Ensure safe handling, storage, and application of treatment chemicals and fuels.
Adhere to operational SOPs and regulatory compliance including health, safety, and environmental guidelines.
Participate in shutdown/startup procedures and emergency drills.
Qualifications:
Diploma/ITI in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical, or Process Technology (or equivalent technical field).
10 years of hands-on experience in DCS operation in water treatment, desalination, or chemical process plants.
Strong understanding of thermic fluid heating systems, chemical dosing, and water purification processes (e.g., RO, UF, softening).
Proficiency with DCS platforms such as Emerson DeltaV, Siemens PCS7, or Yokogawa Centum.
Familiarity with industrial safety practices and PPE requirements.
Preferred Certifications:
HAZMAT / Chemical Handling Certification
OSHA or equivalent industrial safety training
Boiler/Thermic Heater Operation Certification (if applicable)
