Process Safety Engineer - Chemical Operations

Placements24; Bellville; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a experienced Process Safety Engineer for a facility in Centurion, Gauteng. The role focuses on developing, implementing, and managing process safety programs to ensure safe chemical operations.

You will conduct hazard analyses (HAZOP/LOPA), lead risk assessments, and drive compliance with OSHA PSM and Seveso directives, while training personnel and supporting MOC and incident investigations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in process safety engineering within chemical/petrochemical.
• Strong knowledge of PSM elements and risk methods (HAZOP, LOPA).
• Experience with incident investigation and root cause analysis.
• Professional CSP certification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement robust process safety management (PSM) systems.
• Conduct PHAs (HAZOP/LOPA/What-If) for new and existing processes.
• Analyze incident data and audit findings to drive corrective actions.
• Deliver process safety training to plant personnel.
• Ensure mechanical integrity through inspections and maintenance oversight.
• Manage the Management of Change (MOC) process.
• Stay updated on safety regs and recommend updates.
• Collaborate with operations and engineering to promote safety culture.
• Participate in emergency response planning and provide technical support.

Skills

Process safety

HAZOP/LOPA

Incident investigation

Root cause analysis

Regulatory compliance

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation tools

HAZOP tools

Job description

Our client, a prominent player in the chemical manufacturing industry, is actively seeking a dedicated Process Safety Engineer for their facility in Centurion, Gauteng. This role is paramount to ensuring the safety and integrity of all chemical processes and operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive process safety programs. This includes conducting hazard analyses, risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with all national and international safety regulations. The position requires a meticulous individual with a strong understanding of chemical processes and a passion for safety. Joining our team in Centurion means becoming part of an organization committed to operational excellence and the well-being of its employees and the environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement robust process safety management (PSM) systems aligned with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct and facilitate Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and What-If studies, for new and existing processes.
• Analyze incident data, near misses, and audit findings to identify trends and develop corrective and preventive actions.
• Develop and deliver process safety training programs to plant personnel, engineers, and management.
• Ensure mechanical integrity of process equipment through regular inspections and maintenance oversight.
• Manage the Management of Change (MOC) process to ensure all process modifications are evaluated for safety implications.
• Stay abreast of evolving safety regulations, standards, and technologies, and recommend appropriate updates to company procedures.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and maintenance teams to promote a strong safety culture throughout the organization.
• Participate in emergency response planning and provide technical support during safety-related incidents.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience specifically in process safety engineering within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements, risk assessment methodologies (HAZOP, LOPA), and safety regulations (e.g., OSHA PSM, Seveso Directive).
• Experience with incident investigation and root cause analysis techniques.
• Familiarity with process simulation and modeling tools is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional certifications in process safety (e.g., CSP) are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health insurance plan including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and specialized training.
• Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to Centurion.
• A culture that prioritizes safety and employee well-being.