Senior Chemical Engineer - Safety & Compliance

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Chemical Engineer to lead Safety and Compliance initiatives in Queenstown. The role balances on-site safety audits with remote analysis, reporting, and strategy development to ensure safe, compliant operations.

The candidate will develop, implement and oversee safety management systems, conduct risk assessments, and lead incident investigations, shaping a strong safety culture across the organization.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years in chemical engineering with emphasis on process safety, risk management and regulatory compliance.
• Experience with HAZOP, LOPA, and other risk assessment methodologies.
• Knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM) principles and standards (e.g., OSHA PSM, Seveso Directive).

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and manage comprehensive process safety management programs.
• Conduct safety audits, risk assessments and inspections of plant operations.
• Investigate process safety incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with national and international safety and environmental regulations.
• Develop and deliver safety training for employees and contractors.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities and manage permit requirements.

Skills

Process safety

HAZOP

LOPA

Regulatory compliance

Risk management

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

BEng or BSc in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the agrochemical industry, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to lead their Safety and Compliance initiatives in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This critical role involves ensuring that all chemical processes and operations meet the highest standards of safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. You will develop, implement, and oversee safety management systems, conduct risk assessments, and lead incident investigations. This hybrid role requires a balance of on-site safety audits and process reviews with remote analysis, reporting, and strategy development. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of process safety, regulatory frameworks, and risk management. We are looking for a proactive individual who can drive a strong safety culture throughout the organization in Queenstown. This is a significant opportunity to influence safety practices and ensure responsible operations within a vital sector. Our client is committed to sustainable and safe manufacturing practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive process safety management (PSM) programs.
• Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments (e.g., HAZOP, LOPA), and inspections of plant operations.
• Investigate process safety incidents, determine root causes, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international safety and environmental regulations.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for employees and contractors.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities and manage permit requirements.
• Oversee the management of change (MOC) process for modifications to processes and equipment.
• Develop emergency response plans and procedures.
• Champion a proactive safety culture across all levels of the organization.
• Stay current with evolving safety standards, best practices, and regulatory changes.

Requirements

• BEng or BSc in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical engineering, with a significant focus on process safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven expertise in conducting HAZOP, LOPA, and other risk assessment methodologies.
• In-depth knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM) principles and standards (e.g., OSHA PSM, Seveso Directive).
• Experience with environmental management systems and regulatory reporting.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes and industrial safety practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and influencing skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, managing both on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Experience in Queenstown, Eastern Cape or similar industrial settings is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life cover, and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development in safety engineering.
• A vital role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of operations.
• Hybrid work arrangement providing flexibility.
• Supportive work environment focused on continuous improvement in safety standards.