About the Role
Our client, a major player in the Oil & Gas industry, is seeking an experienced and proactive Lead Process Safety Engineer to join their dedicated team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA . This senior role is paramount to ensuring the highest standards of safety are maintained across all operational facilities. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive process safety management (PSM) systems, conducting risk assessments, and driving a culture of safety excellence. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of safety regulations, HAZOP studies, LOPA, and other risk assessment methodologies. This is a critical position that requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. You will be instrumental in safeguarding our operations, personnel, and the environment in the Port Elizabeth area. This is a non-remote, office-based position requiring your presence at our client's Port Elizabeth facilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain the company's Process Safety Management (PSM) program in accordance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Lead and facilitate Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and What-If studies, for new and existing facilities.
- Oversee the development and implementation of safety procedures, emergency response plans, and operating procedures related to process safety.
- Conduct regular safety audits and inspections of facilities and operations to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance.
- Investigate incidents and near misses, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Manage mechanical integrity programs for critical process equipment, ensuring regular inspection, testing, and maintenance.
- Provide technical guidance and training to engineers, operators, and other personnel on process safety principles and practices.
- Stay current with evolving safety regulations, industry best practices, and emerging technologies in process safety.
- Develop and manage the process safety budget and resources effectively.
- Champion a strong safety culture throughout the organization in Port Elizabeth and surrounding operational sites.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process safety engineering within the Oil & Gas or petrochemical industries.
- In-depth knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM) elements (e.g., OSHA PSM, EPA RMP).
- Proven experience in leading and facilitating HAZOP, LOPA, SIL assessment, and other risk assessment studies.
- Strong understanding of relevant safety standards, codes, and regulations (e.g., API, NFPA).
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders.
- Experience in incident investigation and root cause analysis.
- Professional certification in Process Safety (e.g., CCPSC) is highly desirable.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
- Familiarity with the operational landscape of the Eastern Cape region is an advantage.
Benefits
- Competitive salary package with performance‑based incentives.
- Comprehensive medical, life, and disability insurance.
- Generous pension plan and retirement benefits.
- Extensive opportunities for professional development, certifications, and advanced training.
- Annual leave and company‑observed holidays.
- Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates moving to Port Elizabeth.
- Access to advanced safety software and simulation tools.
- Positive and safety‑focused work environment.