Lead Process Safety Engineer - Oil & Gas Facilities

Placements24; Graafwater; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement fund

Training & conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Safety Engineer in Paarl, Western Cape, to strengthen our client's oil and gas processing facilities. The role combines hands-on site presence with hybrid work flexibility, driving safety integrity across projects and operations.

You will lead PHA studies (HAZOP/LOPA/FMEA), oversee SIS design and SIL assessments, manage regulatory compliance, and mentor teams to elevate safety culture in a demanding environment near Paarl.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Process Engineering.
• 9+ years in process safety within Oil & Gas.
• Experience leading PHA studies (HAZOP/LOPA/FMEA).
• Knowledge of PSM elements: MOC, PSSR, Mechanical Integrity, Emergency Planning.
• Familiar with API, NFPA, IEC 61511 standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage Process Safety Management programs across facilities.
• Lead PHAs including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA.
• Oversee SIS design, verification, and maintenance.
• Maintain SIL assessments and related documentation.
• Investigate process safety incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Deliver process safety training to personnel.
• Ensure compliance with national and international regulations.
• Review designs for safety implications.
• Provide guidance to project teams and management.
• Maintain process safety information and records.

Skills

Process safety

PHA leadership

HAZOP

LOPA

FMEA

SIS design

Regulatory compliance

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical/Process Engineering

Master's or CSP desirable

Tools

Safety software

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant force in the Oil & Gas industry, is seeking a highly qualified and motivated Lead Process Safety Engineer to enhance their operations in Paarl, Western Cape . This leadership position is crucial for ensuring the integrity and safety of our client's processing facilities and operations. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating process-related hazards, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in process safety management systems, hazard analysis techniques, and safety engineering principles within the demanding Oil & Gas environment. This role offers a hybrid work model, balancing essential site presence with remote flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive Process Safety Management (PSM) programs across all relevant facilities.
• Lead and conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies, and ensure follow-up actions are completed effectively.
• Oversee the implementation of safety instrumented systems (SIS) design, verification, and maintenance.
• Develop and maintain safety integrity level (SIL) assessments and related documentation.
• Investigate process safety incidents, near misses, and deviations to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver process safety training to relevant personnel.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable national and international process safety regulations and standards.
• Review engineering designs and modifications for safety implications before implementation.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on process safety matters to project teams, operations, and management.
• Maintain and update process safety information, including P&IDs, operating procedures, and mechanical integrity records.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or professional safety certification (e.g., CSP) is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 9 years of experience in process safety engineering, with a strong focus on the Oil & Gas sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading PHA studies (HAZOP, LOPA, FMEA) and implementing their findings.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements, including MOC, PSSR, Mechanical Integrity, and Emergency Planning.
• Proficiency with relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., API, NFPA, IEC 61511).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound technical judgments.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and drive safety culture improvements.
• Experience with safety software and simulation tools is beneficial.
• Familiarity with operations in the Western Cape , particularly around Paarl , is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses. Full medical coverage, a comprehensive retirement fund, and superior life and disability insurance are standard. The company invests in its employees through ongoing professional development, training programs, and opportunities to attend industry conferences. This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring engagement with critical site operations near Paarl . Opportunities for career advancement into senior management positions within the Oil & Gas industry are available. Join a dedicated team focused on operational safety and excellence.