Junior Chemical Plant Operator (Jnr CPO) at Sasol

Sasol is currently recruiting two Junior Chemical Plant Operators (Jnr CPO) to join its EOP operations based in Secunda, Mpumalanga. This vital plant-floor role is designed to coordinate and direct equipment servicing, process monitoring, and operational continuity across advanced chemical production lines. You will operate within a high-performance chemical manufacturing environment where innovation, technical excellence, and workforce safety are paramount.

As an active member of the production unit, you will monitor industrial control panels, execute routine plant line adjustments, and manage real-time troubleshooting routines. This position gives you direct accountability for equipment availability, product throughput, and compliance with statutory petrochemical operating standards, offering an exceptional career platform in South Africa's leading energy and chemicals business.

Key Responsibilities & Core Duties

• Monitor and direct operational parameters for designated production processes via control panels and field equipment.
• Participate actively in risk assessments, root cause investigations, and plant deviation evaluations to eliminate safety hazards.
• Perform daily Integrated Management System (IMS) plant inspections to sustain plant integrity and equipment reliability.
• Lead handover discussions during shift rotations, providing detailed updates on production KPIs, line stability, and open repairs.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams, planners, and instrumentation artisans to execute scheduled engineering work efficiently.
• Perform first-line fault diagnosis during abnormal plant conditions and participate in emergency shutdown or start-up actions.
• Support and mentor incoming learners and apprentice operators on standard plant operating practices.

Ideal Candidate Profile & Core Attributes

• Methodical, process-driven thinker with strong situational awareness in high-hazard plant settings.
• Capable of operating independently while maintaining close communication with cross-discipline plant teams.
• Results-driven individual committed to personal skill advancement and operational problem solving.
• Disciplined approach to workplace safety, cleanliness, and chemical waste management standards.

Learning, Mentorship & Career Progression

Junior Chemical Plant Operators at Sasol benefit from continuous on-the-job coaching, specialized simulation training, and structured career pathways. Through approved Personal Development Plans, operators can progress through advanced control room operator certifications, senior production specialist roles, or shift leadership positions.

Estimated Salary Range (Market Benchmark)

The hiring employer has not officially specified a salary for this position. Based on South African market data and industry benchmarks for a junior chemical plant operator role, the estimated remuneration is approximately R15,000 – R24,000 per month. Please note that this is an industry estimate and actual remuneration will be determined by the employer based on qualifications, experience, and internal pay structures.

How to Apply & Submission Guidelines

Interested candidates should apply via Sasol's official job portal prior to the deadline on 13 November 2026. Please upload your matric/N3 certificate, statement of results, CV, and proof of your chemical operations qualification. Applications are processed through automated screening and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

• Matric / Grade 12 or N3 Certificate with Mathematics, English, and Physical Science
• NQF Level 2 Chemical Operations qualification with Chemical Plant Operator Statement of Results (CPO SOR)
• Approximately 2 years of relevant plant operational experience
• Valid South African driver's licence
• Competence in production resource management and equipment fault diagnosis