Process Safety Chemical Engineer

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Safety Chemical Engineer for our client in Benoni, Gauteng. The role focuses on ensuring safety across all processes, minimising risks to personnel, assets and the environment, with hands-on hazard analyses and safety program development.

You will conduct PHAs (HAZOP, LOPA, FMEA), implement PSM, review procedures, train staff, and collaborate with engineering, operations and maintenance to embed safety into plant operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering is required.
• 5+ years of process safety engineering experience in chemicals.
• Experience conducting PHAs (HAZOP/LOPA/FMEA) and implementing PSM.

Responsibilities

• Conduct PHAs (HAZOP, LOPA, FMEA) for processes.
• Develop, implement, and maintain PSM programs.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards (OSHA PSM).
• Develop and review safety procedures and emergency plans.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Audit safety performance and train personnel on PSM elements.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations and maintenance to integrate safety.

Skills

Process safety

PHAs

PSM

LOPA

SIS

Risk assessment

Safety training

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major diversified chemical manufacturer, is seeking a dedicated Process Safety Chemical Engineer to join their established team in **Benoni, Gauteng**. This critical role focuses on ensuring the highest standards of safety across all operational processes, minimizing risks, and protecting personnel, assets, and the environment. You will be responsible for conducting process hazard analyses (PHAs), developing safety procedures, and ensuring compliance with relevant safety regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, a deep understanding of process safety management (PSM), and meticulous attention to detail. This is a vital position within the organization, contributing directly to operational integrity and a culture of safety excellence. As this role involves hands‑on assessment and implementation within the plant environment, it requires a full‑time presence at our **Benoni, Gauteng** facility. We are committed to fostering a secure and responsible working environment, and this role is central to that mission. Your expertise will help prevent incidents and ensure the safe and reliable operation of our chemical facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain Process Safety Management (PSM) programs.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., OSHA PSM).
• Develop and review safety procedures, operating guidelines, and emergency response plans.
• Investigate process safety incidents, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Perform safety reviews for new projects, modifications, and management of change (MOC) processes.
• Conduct safety training for operational personnel on PSM elements and safe work practices.
• Maintain process safety information (PSI) and ensure its accuracy and accessibility.
• Audit facility safety performance and recommend improvements to enhance safety culture and compliance.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams to integrate safety into all aspects of plant operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process safety engineering within the chemical industry.
• Proven experience in conducting PHAs and implementing PSM systems.
• Strong knowledge of chemical process hazards, risk assessment methodologies, and safety regulations.
• Familiarity with safety instrumented systems (SIS) and layers of protection analysis (LOPA).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and train others.
• Ability to work effectively in a plant environment and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Professional certifications in Process Safety (e.g., CCPSC) are highly desirable.
• Commitment to a proactive and robust safety culture.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional development, including specialized safety training and certifications, are provided. A strong emphasis is placed on safety culture and employee well‑being. This role is based in **Benoni, Gauteng**, offering a stable career within a leading industrial company. We provide a challenging yet supportive work environment where safety is paramount. Employees have access to various company‑sponsored wellness initiatives. Opportunities for career growth into senior safety management roles are available for exceptional candidates.