Process Safety Engineer - Chemical Industry

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

CPD opportunities

Advanced safety certifications

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Process Safety Engineer for our Richards Bay site in KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on preventing accidents and mitigating chemical-process risks through robust process safety management systems, PHAs, and incident investigations.

The position blends on-site assessment with hybrid analysis, emphasizing compliance, training, and continuous improvement in a safety‑driven environment.

Qualifications

• 6+ years in process safety engineering in chemical/heavy industry.
• Strong knowledge of PSM standards (OSHA PSM, EPA RMP).
• Experience leading PHAs and risk assessments.
• Familiarity with mechanical integrity and NDT methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and manage the Process Safety Management program in compliance with regulations.
• Lead PHAs (HAZOP, What-If, FMEA) for new and existing processes.
• Oversee Mechanical Integrity programs for critical equipment.
• Investigate incidents, near misses and deviations; implement corrective actions.
• Deliver process safety training to operations and maintenance staff.
• Ensure permits, licenses, and regulatory compliance are met.
• Maintain P&IDs, safety procedures and emergency plans.
• Provide safety input during design/modification of plant equipment.
• Monitor KPIs and report process safety performance to management.
• Promote strong safety culture across the organization.

Skills

PHAs (HAZOP/What-If/FMEA)

PSM knowledge

Mechanical integrity

NDT methods

Hazard analysis

Education

BEng or BSc in Chemical/Mechanical Eng

Tools

Safety management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the industrial chemicals sector, requires an experienced Process Safety Engineer to join their established team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

This role is essential for ensuring the highest standards of safety across all operations, focusing on the prevention of accidents and the mitigation of risks associated with chemical processes. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining robust process safety management systems.

This position offers a stimulating blend of on-site assessment and off-site analysis within a hybrid work framework, allowing for effective integration of operational realities and strategic planning. We are committed to creating a secure and sustainable working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the company's Process Safety Management (PSM) program in compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, What-If, and FMEA studies, for new and existing processes.
• Develop and oversee the execution of Mechanical Integrity programs for critical process equipment.
• Investigate incidents, near misses, and deviations to determine root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver process safety training to operations, maintenance, and engineering personnel.
• Ensure compliance with all safety permits, licenses, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain up-to-date safety documentation, including P&IDs, safety procedures, and emergency response plans.
• Provide expert advice on process safety aspects during the design and modification of plant equipment and processes.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for process safety and report on safety performance to management.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the organization.

Requirements

• BEng or BSc in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process safety engineering within the chemical, petrochemical, or heavy industry sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM) standards (e.g., OSHA PSM, EPA RMP).
• Proven experience in conducting and leading PHAs and risk assessments.
• Familiarity with mechanical integrity principles and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes and equipment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication, report writing, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote tasks.
• Experience with safety management software is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits, including medical aid and a provident fund. This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring crucial on-site engagement. You will have access to continuous professional development, including advanced safety certifications and training. Joining our client means becoming part of a team dedicated to operational excellence and employee well-being in the vibrant industrial hub of Richards Bay.