Lead Process Safety Engineer - Refinery Operations

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance may be available

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting for a Lead Process Safety Engineer to join a leading energy company in George, Western Cape. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of process safety across refinery operations, leading development and implementation of PSM systems, and guiding operational teams.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering and at least 10 years' experience in Oil & Gas or chemical processing, with proven HAZOP/LOPA/SIL expertise, MOC

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in process safety engineering in Oil & Gas or chemical processing.
• Proven expertise in HAZOP, LOPA, and SIL assessments.
• Knowledge of OSHA PSM or similar regulatory frameworks.
• Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain Process Safety Management (PSM) systems.
• Lead HAZOP, LOPA, and risk assessments for new and existing processes.
• Oversee Management of Change (MOC) to integrate safety in modifications.
• Conduct incident investigations and root cause analyses with corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver process safety training programs for staff.
• Ensure compliance with safety legislation, standards, and policies.
• Audit safety systems and identify improvement areas.
• Provide expert process safety guidance to project teams and operations.
• Manage integrity of safety-critical equipment and systems.
• Champion a positive safety culture across the organization.

Skills

HAZOP leadership

LOPA expertise

PSM knowledge

Incident investigation

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

We are recruiting for a Lead Process Safety Engineer to join a leading energy company's operations in George, Western Cape. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of process safety across all refinery operations. You will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of process safety management systems. The position demands extensive knowledge of hazard identification, risk assessment methodologies (HAZOP, LOPA), and safety-critical equipment integrity. You will play a key role in fostering a strong safety culture, providing expert guidance to operational teams, and ensuring compliance with all relevant national and international safety regulations. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact on operational safety and reliability in a high-stakes environment. The George location offers a unique blend of industrial activity and natural beauty, making it an appealing place to live and work. Our client is committed to operational excellence and employee well-being.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain robust Process Safety Management (PSM) systems.
• Lead and facilitate HAZOP, LOPA, and other risk assessment studies for new and existing processes.
• Oversee the management of change (MOC) process to ensure safety is integrated into all modifications.
• Conduct incident investigations and root cause analyses, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Develop and deliver process safety training programs for operational and technical staff.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety legislation, standards, and company policies.
• Audit safety systems and procedures, identifying areas for improvement.
• Provide expert advice on process safety matters to project teams and operations management.
• Manage the integrity of safety-critical equipment and systems.
• Promote and champion a positive safety culture throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in process safety engineering, with significant experience in the Oil & Gas or chemical processing industries.
• Proven expertise in conducting and leading HAZOP, LOPA, and SIL assessments.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements, including OSHA PSM or similar regulatory frameworks.
• Strong understanding of inherently safer design principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills.
• Strong leadership and influencing abilities, with effective communication skills.
• Experience with incident investigation methodologies and reporting.
• Familiarity with relevant international safety standards (e.g., API, CCPS).
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing office-based and on-site responsibilities in George.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, a retirement fund, and an annual performance bonus.
• Opportunities for professional development, further training, and certifications are readily available.
• The company supports a healthy work-life balance and provides a challenging yet rewarding work environment.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for the successful candidate moving to the George area.

Join a team dedicated to ensuring safe and efficient operations in the Oil & Gas sector.