Ekurhuleni Water Care Company (ERWAT) is inviting suitably qualified and motivated candidates to apply for the position of Process Controller within its Commercial Business Division, under the Heineken Business Unit. This opportunity is suitable for individuals with a relevant qualification in Chemical Engineering, Water Care or an equivalent field who are interested in developing their careers in wastewater treatment and environmental management.

The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the daily operation and performance of wastewater treatment plants or treatment modules. The role focuses on ensuring that wastewater treatment processes operate safely, efficiently and in accordance with the required environmental standards, licence conditions and operational procedures.

• Position: Process Controller
• Location: Ekurhuleni Rural, Gauteng, South Africa
• Division: Commercial Business
• Business Unit: Heineken
• Job Type: 12-Month Fixed-Term Contract
• Experience Level: Entry Level
• Salary: R240 000 – R360 000 per annum
• Closing Date: 23 November 2026

Introduction

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract opportunity based in Ekurhuleni Rural, Gauteng. Candidates with a National Diploma at NQF Level 6 and approximately one to two years of relevant working experience are encouraged to apply.

About the Position

The Process Controller plays an important role in maintaining the effective operation of wastewater treatment facilities. Wastewater treatment requires continuous monitoring, appropriate chemical dosing, proper sludge disposal and strict adherence to environmental and occupational health and safety requirements.

The successful candidate will contribute to the smooth running of treatment plant operations by monitoring processes, identifying operational challenges and implementing appropriate corrective measures when necessary.

The position requires someone who understands the importance of maintaining compliant effluent discharge, controlling operational costs and ensuring that treatment processes meet the required performance standards.

Since wastewater treatment facilities operate around the clock, the role also requires the ability to support continuous plant operations and communicate effectively with other employees working on different shifts.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to perform the following duties:

1. Chemical Handling and Safety

• Ensure the safe handling, storage and use of chemical solutions in accordance with approved standard operating procedures.
• Follow all relevant safety requirements when working with chemicals and treatment equipment.
• Maintain proper chemical handling practices to minimise workplace risks and prevent accidents.
• Ensure that chemical-related activities are carried out according to established operational guidelines.

2. Chemical Dosing and Process Control

• Perform chemical dosing efficiently and cost-effectively to maintain compliance and achieve optimal plant performance.
• Monitor chemical usage and make appropriate adjustments when required.
• Ensure that treatment processes operate within the required operational parameters.
• Identify process-related challenges and take appropriate action to maintain effective wastewater treatment.
• Support the efficient use of chemicals and other operational resources.

3. Plant Operations and Cost Management

• Control and optimise variable operational costs through the efficient operation of plant modules.
• Monitor plant performance and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
• Ensure that treatment modules operate effectively and consistently.
• Assist in maintaining reliable wastewater treatment operations.
• Contribute towards achieving operational targets while maintaining environmental compliance.

4. Contingency Planning and Incident Management

• Develop, document and implement contingency plans in accordance with the Incident Management Protocol.
• Prepare for potential operational challenges, including high wastewater inflows, flooding, power failures, industrial spillage and equipment breakdowns.
• Respond appropriately to unexpected plant incidents.
• Follow established emergency procedures and communicate operational risks to relevant personnel.
• Support measures aimed at reducing operational disruptions and maintaining continuous plant performance.

5. Reporting and Documentation

• Compile daily, weekly and monthly reports relating to process performance, efficiency and compliance.
• Maintain accurate operational records and documentation.
• Monitor and report on treatment plant performance.
• Record relevant process adjustments and operational challenges.
• Provide information that supports effective decision-making and continuous improvement.

6. Communication and Shift Coordination

• Communicate process adjustments and plant performance information to subordinates working on shift.
• Ensure that relevant operational information is shared clearly and accurately.
• Support effective coordination between employees responsible for plant operations.
• Report operational concerns and incidents through the appropriate communication channels.

7. Occupational Health and Safety Compliance

• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and applicable regulations.
• Follow ERWAT safety policies, procedures and operational requirements.
• Promote safe working practices within the treatment plant environment.
• Identify potential workplace hazards and ensure that appropriate safety measures are followed.
• Maintain awareness of environmental and occupational health and safety requirements.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Water Care or an equivalent qualification at NQF Level 6.
• One to two years of relevant working experience.
• In-Service Training will not be counted towards the required one to two years of relevant experience.

Applicants must possess a qualification relevant to the position and demonstrate an understanding of wastewater treatment processes, chemical handling and operational safety.

Skills and Competencies

Although the vacancy specifies the formal minimum requirements, candidates interested in this position should be prepared to demonstrate skills relevant to wastewater treatment operations, including:

• Understanding of wastewater treatment processes and plant operations.
• Knowledge of chemical handling and dosing procedures.
• Ability to monitor operational processes and identify irregularities.
• Good reporting and documentation skills.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures.
• Understanding of occupational health and safety requirements.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work in an operational environment that requires continuous plant performance monitoring.
• Attention to detail and commitment to environmental compliance.

Employment Equity and Selection Process

Employment Equity objectives will be taken into consideration during the recruitment and selection process.

Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a competency assessment to evaluate their suitability for the position.

The recruitment process may also include qualification verification, security vetting and criminal record checks. These checks will only be conducted on shortlisted candidates.

Applicants are reminded to provide accurate and truthful information throughout the application process. The submission of false or fraudulent information will result in automatic disqualification.

Salary and Contract Information

The successful candidate will be offered a 12-month fixed-term contract.

The advertised salary range is between R240 000 and R360 000 per annum.

The position falls under the Commercial Business Division and is associated with the Heineken Business Unit. The successful applicant will contribute to wastewater treatment operations, environmental compliance and the effective management of treatment plant processes.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is particularly relevant to individuals who hold a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Water Care or an equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification and have one to two years of relevant working experience.

Candidates interested in wastewater management, environmental services, chemical processes and water treatment operations may find this position a valuable opportunity to gain further professional experience.

Applicants should carefully review the minimum requirements before submitting an application. Meeting the qualification and experience requirements is important for consideration.

Important Application Information

Before applying, ensure that all required personal information, qualifications and employment details are accurate and up to date. Applicants should also ensure that their CV clearly reflects relevant qualifications and experience.

The employer may conduct additional assessments and verification checks as part of the recruitment process. Only shortlisted candidates should expect to proceed to the next stages of selection.

How to Apply

Interested and suitably qualified candidates should apply for the Process Controller position through the official Ekurhuleni Water Care Company recruitment channel.

Position: Process Controller
Location: Ekurhuleni Rural, Gauteng
Contract: 12 Months
Salary: R240 000 – R360 000 per annum
Closing Date: 23 November 2026

Application Deadline: 23 November 2026

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date to avoid missing this opportunity.