Chemical Safety Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Chemical Safety Engineer in Paarl, Western Cape, to strengthen safety compliance and risk management across operations, from design to on-site handling. You will develop safety protocols, conduct PHAs/HAZOPs, ensure regulatory compliance, and lead training.

The role requires a 5-year track record in chemical safety, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate with multiple departments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, EHS, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of chemical safety engineering or risk management experience.
• Knowledge of chemical hazards, safety regulations (OSHA, COMAH), and risk assessment methods.
• Experience with PHAs, HAZOP, LOPA.
• Strong communication and training abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain chemical safety programs.
• Conduct PHAs, HAZOPs, and risk assessments for operations.
• Ensure compliance with legislation, standards, and policies.
• Investigate incidents and near misses; recommend corrective actions.
• Deliver safety training to employees at all levels.
• Oversee safe storage, handling, and transportation of hazardous chemicals.
• Conduct regular safety audits and liaise with regulators and emergency services.
• Promote strong safety culture in Paarl, Western Cape.

Skills

Chemical safety

Risk assessment

HAZOP/LOPA

Industrial hygiene

Training delivery

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering / EHS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected leader in chemical manufacturing and distribution, is seeking a diligent Chemical Safety Engineer to bolster their safety compliance and risk management efforts in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is paramount in ensuring the highest standards of safety are maintained across all operations, from process design to on-site handling and storage of chemicals. You will be responsible for developing and implementing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with all relevant national and international safety regulations. The ideal candidate possesses a comprehensive understanding of chemical hazards, safety engineering principles, and a proactive approach to risk mitigation. This is a vital role in safeguarding employees, the environment, and company assets.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive chemical safety programs and procedures.
• Conduct thorough Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), HAZOP studies, and risk assessments for all operations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, standards, and company policies regarding chemical safety.
• Investigate safety incidents, near misses, and recommend corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs to employees at all levels.
• Oversee the safe storage, handling, and transportation of hazardous chemicals.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections of facilities and equipment.
• Liaise with regulatory agencies and emergency response services.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the organization in Paarl, Western Cape .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Health and Safety, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience specifically in chemical safety engineering or risk management.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical hazards, safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, COMAH), and risk assessment methodologies.
• Experience with HAZOP, LOPA, and other PHA techniques.
• Strong understanding of industrial hygiene principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication, training, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with various departments.
• Familiarity with the industrial landscape in Paarl, Western Cape is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a robust benefits package including health, disability, and retirement plans, opportunities for advanced safety training and certifications, and a supportive work environment committed to employee well-being. You will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and operational integrity of a leading chemical company.