Principal Chemical Engineer - Process Safety Management

Placements24; Centurion; Remote; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-friendly work

Executive development allowance

Annual bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer to lead global Process Safety Management initiatives in a remote setting. The role drives PSM programs, risk assessments, audits and a culture of safety across operations worldwide.

The ideal candidate possesses 15+ years in chemical engineering with a strong PSM focus, expertise in HAZOP/LOPA, and relevant safety certifications. A strategic, autonomous leader who can influence across functions is essential for success.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in chemical engineering with a significant focus on process safety.
• Experience with PHA methodologies (HAZOP, LOPA, etc.).
• Certifications in safety (e.g., CSP, CIH) are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement robust PSM systems aligned with international standards and local regulations.
• Lead PHAs (HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA) studies.
• Conduct safety audits and inspections of chemical facilities.
• Develop and maintain safety-critical procedures and guidelines.
• Investigate process safety incidents and perform root cause analyses.
• Provide expert training on PSM to engineering, operations and management teams.
• Stay current with evolving PSM regulations, industry best practices and emerging safety technologies.
• Champion a proactive safety culture across the organization.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with safety legislation.
• Manage external safety consultants and vendors as required.

Skills

Risk analysis

PHAs (HAZOP/LOPA)

Regulatory compliance

Safety leadership

Incident investigation

Technical training

Stakeholder management

Autonomous work

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial chemical production, is seeking a highly experienced and distinguished Principal Chemical Engineer to lead their Process Safety Management (PSM) initiatives. This role is entirely remote, offering unparalleled flexibility to candidates across various locations. You will be the foremost authority on process safety, responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive PSM programs to ensure the highest levels of safety across all operations. This includes conducting rigorous risk assessments, leading safety audits, and driving a strong safety culture. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in hazard identification, risk analysis, and regulatory compliance within the chemical industry. This is a senior-level position for an individual passionate about preventing incidents and protecting people and assets. Your expertise will be crucial in upholding our client's commitment to safety excellence, regardless of geographic location. We are committed to a remote-first approach to maximize talent acquisition.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement robust Process Safety Management (PSM) systems and programs in accordance with international standards and local regulations.
• Lead and facilitate Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies.
• Conduct comprehensive safety audits and inspections of chemical facilities and processes.
• Develop and maintain safety-critical procedures, standards, and guidelines.
• Investigate process safety incidents, root cause analyses, and recommend corrective actions.
• Provide expert technical guidance and training on PSM principles to engineering, operations, and management teams.
• Stay current with evolving PSM regulations, industry best practices, and emerging safety technologies.
• Champion a proactive safety culture throughout the organization.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and ensure compliance with all safety-related legislation.
• Manage external safety consultants and vendors as required.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field from a recognized institution.
• A minimum of 15 years of experience in chemical engineering, with a significant focus (10+ years) on process safety engineering and management.
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with various PHA methodologies (HAZOP, LOPA, etc.).
• Expertise in Process Safety Management (PSM) standards (e.g., OSHA PSM, EPA RMP, Seveso Directive).
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, equipment, and their associated hazards.
• Proven experience in incident investigation and root cause analysis.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and effectively manage multiple priorities in a remote environment.
• Professional certifications in safety (e.g., CSP, CIH) are highly desirable.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive executive-level salary, comprehensive remote work benefits, annual performance bonuses, and a generous allowance for professional development, including conferences and training.
• Our client provides cutting-edge remote collaboration tools and fosters a supportive virtual work environment.
• This is a full-time, permanent role for a recognized expert in process safety, contributing to the well-being of operations globally.