Lead Process Safety Engineer - Plant Operations

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Safety Engineer for our client in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA. You will lead a team to implement robust Process Safety Management across all plants, conduct PHAs, investigations, and training to embed a strong safety culture.

The role requires 7–9 years of process safety experience, MOC, PSSR and regulatory knowledge. A CSP/CCPSC is a strong asset. Excellent leadership and stakeholder engagement are essential.

Qualifications

• 7–9 years of experience in process safety engineering.
• Knowledge of PSM elements, OSHA 29 CFR or equivalent standards.
• Experience with MOC, mechanical integrity, and PSSR processes.
• Strong communication, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Process Safety Management (PSM) systems.
• Lead Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) such as HAZOP/LOPA/FMEA.
• Oversee incident investigations and RCA with corrective actions.
• Deliver process safety training to plant personnel.
• Ensure compliance with safety regs and standards in Oil & Gas.
• Manage Mechanical Integrity program for critical equipment.
• Review MOC requests for safety implications.
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans and drills.
• Act as SME on process safety across departments.
• Foster proactive safety culture in Centurion.

Skills

Leadership

PSM knowledge

Hazard analysis

Stakeholder liaison

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Eng

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Oil & Gas industry , is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Process Safety Engineer to join their operational team in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA . This critical position will focus on ensuring the highest standards of process safety across all plant operations, mitigating risks, and promoting a strong safety culture. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing process safety management systems, conducting hazard analyses, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. This is an exceptional opportunity for a safety-focused professional to make a significant impact in a key operational role, contributing to the sustainable and safe growth of our client's business. You will lead a team of safety professionals and collaborate across departments to embed safety as a core value in all operational activities, fostering an environment where risks are proactively identified and managed. The role demands a meticulous approach and a comprehensive understanding of chemical process safety principles and practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement robust Process Safety Management (PSM) systems in accordance with industry best practices and regulatory standards.
• Lead and conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies for new and existing facilities.
• Oversee incident investigations, root cause analysis (RCA), and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Develop and deliver process safety training programs to plant personnel at all levels.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and standards related to the Oil & Gas sector .
• Manage the Mechanical Integrity program, including inspection, testing, and maintenance of critical process equipment.
• Review management of change (MOC) requests to ensure process safety implications are adequately addressed.
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans and conduct drills.
• Act as a subject matter expert on process safety for engineering, operations, and maintenance departments.
• Promote and foster a proactive safety culture throughout the organization in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7-9 years of experience in process safety engineering, with a strong emphasis on the Oil & Gas industry .
• Demonstrated expertise in conducting various types of PHAs and understanding their outcomes.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements, such as OSHA 29 CFR or equivalent standards.
• Experience with management of change (MOC), mechanical integrity, and pre-startup safety review (PSSR) processes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CSP, CCPSC) are a strong asset.
• Must be eligible to work in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA .

Benefits

• competitive salary package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a generous retirement plan.
• extensive opportunities for professional development, including specialized training, certifications, and participation in industry forums.
• A collaborative and safety-first work environment is guaranteed.
• significant paid time off, potential for performance bonuses, and relocation assistance.