Lead Process Safety Engineer

Placements24; Randfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Performance bonuses

Health & retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Safety Engineer to oversee PSM initiatives at a major facility in Rustenburg. You will lead a team of safety professionals, drive PHAs, and implement robust safety protocols to ensure operational integrity.

The role requires a chemical/mechanical engineering background, 10+ years in process safety, and leadership experience. On-site work with relocation support and strong safety culture are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• At least 10 years in process safety engineering, with 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Deep knowledge of PSM principles (OSHA PSM, Seveso Directive).
• Proven experience with PHAs (HAZOP/LOPA/What-If).
• Strong risk assessment skills and tools.
• Excellent leadership and communication abilities.
• Certifications in safety (e.g., CSP, CIH) desirable.
• Mining or heavy industrial chemical sector experience a plus.
• On-site in Rustenburg full-time.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the Process Safety Management (PSM) program.
• Lead PHAs, including HAZOP, LOPA, and What-If studies.
• Oversee incident investigations and ensure corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain safety procedures, standards, and guidelines for Rustenburg operations.
• Ensure compliance with local and international process safety regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections of plant facilities and operations.
• Manage the mechanical integrity program for critical process equipment.
• Develop and deliver process safety training to employees and contractors.
• Act as primary contact for regulatory agencies on process safety matters.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the organization.

Skills

Leadership

PSM knowledge

PHA studies

Risk assessment

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PHAs tooling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major industrial chemical producer, seeks an experienced Lead Process Safety Engineer to oversee safety initiatives at their significant facility in Rustenburg . This critical role involves championing process safety management (PSM) and ensuring the highest standards of operational integrity. You will lead a team of safety professionals, drive risk assessments, and implement robust safety protocols. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical processes and safety regulations, coupled with strong leadership capabilities. This position is essential for maintaining a safe working environment and preventing incidents. You will be at the forefront of ensuring compliance and continuous improvement in process safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the Process Safety Management (PSM) program.
• Lead and conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and What-If studies.
• Oversee incident investigations and root cause analyses, ensuring corrective actions are implemented.
• Develop and maintain safety procedures, standards, and guidelines relevant to Rustenburg operations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local and international process safety regulations and standards.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections of plant facilities and operations.
• Manage the mechanical integrity program for critical process equipment.
• Develop and deliver process safety training to employees and contractors.
• Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory agencies on process safety matters.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in process safety engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of PSM principles and practices (e.g., OSHA PSM, Seveso Directive).
• Proven experience in conducting various types of PHAs.
• Strong understanding of risk assessment methodologies and tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to influence and drive change at all levels of the organization.
• Professional certifications in safety (e.g., CSP, CIH) are highly desirable.
• Experience in the mining or heavy industrial chemical sector is an advantage.
• Must be able to work full-time on-site in Rustenburg and respond to emergencies as needed.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits. Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates. You will have the opportunity to lead significant safety initiatives and make a tangible impact on operational safety. Our client invests in professional development, offering opportunities for advanced training and certifications. The work environment is dynamic, with opportunities to work on challenging projects. Secure long-term employment with a reputable industry leader. Access to cutting-edge safety technologies and resources is standard.