Lead Process Safety Engineer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional growth and certifications

Supportive safety-focused environment

Strong retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Safety Engineer for a major Oil & Gas facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This senior role requires extensive expertise in PSM, hazard identification, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance to drive a strong safety culture.

You will lead a team of safety professionals and collaborate with operations, engineering, and maintenance to uphold high safety standards and protect personnel and the environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• 9+ years in process safety, preferably Oil & Gas.
• Experience leading PHAs, LOPA, and SIL assessments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the Process Safety Management system.
• Lead PHAs, LOPA, and What-If studies.
• Conduct SIL assessments and ensure functional safety.
• Oversee incident investigations and root cause analysis.
• Manage MI program for safety-critical equipment.
• Lead safety audits and foster a proactive safety culture.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and standards.

Skills

Leadership

PHAs

LOPA

SIL assessments

PSM knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Engineering

Tools

CCPS Guidelines

API RP 74

ISO 45001

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major entity within the Oil & Gas industry, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Lead Process Safety Engineer to oversee and enhance safety protocols at their facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This senior role is critical in ensuring the highest standards of process safety are maintained throughout all operational phases, from design to decommissioning. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of process safety management (PSM) systems, hazard identification, risk assessment techniques, and regulatory compliance. You will lead a team of safety professionals and collaborate closely with operations, engineering, and maintenance departments to embed a robust safety culture. This is an outstanding opportunity to drive safety initiatives within a leading organization that prioritizes the well-being of its workforce and the environment. Based in Vereeniging, you will be instrumental in mitigating risks and preventing incidents in a complex industrial setting. We are looking for a proactive leader with a strong commitment to excellence in process safety engineering. Your expertise will be vital in upholding the company's reputation and ensuring operational integrity in the demanding Oil & Gas sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the company's Process Safety Management (PSM) system.
• Lead and facilitate Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), such as HAZOP, LOPA, and What-If studies.
• Conduct safety integrity level (SIL) assessments and ensure adherence to functional safety standards.
• Oversee incident investigations, root cause analyses (RCA), and the implementation of corrective actions.
• Develop and review safety-critical equipment (SCE) management programs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international process safety regulations and standards.
• Provide expert advice and training on process safety principles and practices to operational and engineering teams.
• Manage the Mechanical Integrity (MI) program for safety-critical equipment.
• Lead safety audits and inspections to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance.
• Foster a proactive safety culture across the organization through engagement and leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• A minimum of 9 years of experience in process safety engineering, with a significant portion in the Oil & Gas industry.
• Proven experience in leading and facilitating PHAs, LOPA, and SIL assessments.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements, OHSAS 18001/ISO 45001, and relevant industry standards (e.g., CCPS Guidelines, API RP 74).
• Strong understanding of process safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively manage and mentor a team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to Vereeniging, Gauteng .
• Professional safety certifications (e.g., CSP, CCPSC) are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent medical coverage, a strong retirement fund, and performance-based incentives.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and development, including advanced training and certifications, are provided.
• Relocation assistance is available for candidates relocating to Vereeniging .
• The company fosters a supportive and safety-focused work environment, valuing innovation and employee contributions.
• You will play a key role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of critical infrastructure within the Oil & Gas sector.
• We are committed to employee well-being and offer a range of support programs.