Chemical Operator: ANPP 3&4 at AECI Limited

Job Purpose

• To safely and efficiently operate chemical processing equipment within the Nitrates plant, ensuring that production targets, product quality standards, and Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) compliance requirements are consistently met. The role contributes to continuous improvement initiatives and supports operational excellence within the Global Operations Nitrates division.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Operations

• Operate and monitor chemical processing equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Control process parameters to ensure optimal plant performance and product quality.
• Conduct plant start-ups, shutdowns, and changeovers as required.
• Perform routine inspections and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Report process deviations and escalate abnormalities timeously.

Safety, Health & Environmental Compliance

• Adhere strictly to OHSA regulations, company safety standards, and site-specific procedures.
• Participate in risk assessments, toolbox talks, and safety meetings.
• Identify hazards and implement corrective or preventive actions.
• Ensure compliance with environmental standards, waste management procedures, and emissions controls.
• Actively support zero-harm and incident-free operations.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure products meet required specifications and quality standards.
• Conduct sampling and basic laboratory checks where required.
• Record operational data accurately and maintain production logs.

Maintenance Support

• Perform first-line maintenance and basic equipment care.
• Report mechanical or instrumentation issues to Maintenance teams.
• Participate in planned shutdowns and statutory inspections.

Continuous Improvement

• Contribute to operational efficiency initiatives and cost-saving measures.
• Participate in improvement projects within the Nitrates division.
• Support 5S, Lean, or other operational excellence programs.

Teamwork & Communication

• Communicate effectively with supervisors, maintenance teams, and shift personnel.
• Participate in shift handovers ensuring accurate transfer of operational information.
• Support training and mentoring of junior operators where applicable.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric (Mathematics and Physical Science preferred)
• NQF Level 4 Chemical Operations qualification (advantageous/required depending on grading)
• Relevant experience in a chemical processing or manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of process control systems (DCS/SCADA advantageous)

Competencies

• Strong safety awareness
• Technical and process understanding
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving ability
• Ability to work shifts
• Team collaboration
• Accountability and reliability