Process Safety Engineer - Chemical Plant

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid time off

Professional development

Safety culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Process Safety Engineer for our client in Paarl, Western Cape. The role focuses on leading process safety management, PHAs, and SIS integrity to safeguard employees, the community, and the environment.

You will develop and maintain robust safety protocols, conduct hazard analyses, manage MOC and incident investigations, and contribute to a strong safety culture across the plant. A relevant engineering degree and 6+ years of experience are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 6 years experience in process safety engineering in chemical/petrochemical.
• Experience with HAZOP, LOPA, and other risk assessments.
• Knowledge of PSM elements (MOC, PSSR, incident investigation, mechanical integrity).
• Familiarity with SIL assessment for SIS.
• Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of SA safety regulations and ISO 61508/61511 standards.
• Able to work independently and in a team.
• Experience in Western Cape manufacturing is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Process Safety Management programs.
• Lead PHAs including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA.
• Ensure SIS integrity and protection layers.
• Develop safety procedures, operating manuals, and emergency plans.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Perform safety reviews for projects and MOC processes.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections.
• Provide training on process safety principles.
• Maintain safety documentation and records.
• Stay updated on evolving safety regulations and technologies.

Skills

Hazard analysis

HAZOP

LOPA

PSM

SIS

Regulatory compliance

Leadership

Communication

Mechanical integrity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SIS tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing facility, is seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Process Safety Engineer to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape . This critical role ensures the highest standards of safety in all chemical processes, mitigating risks and ensuring regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles, hazard identification and risk assessment techniques (HAZOP, LOPA), and safety instrumented systems (SIS). You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining robust safety protocols throughout the plant operations. This is a vital position for ensuring the well-being of employees, the community, and the environment, while supporting the efficient operation of the facility in the scenic Paarl region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive Process Safety Management (PSM) programs in accordance with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct and lead process hazard analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies.
• Ensure the integrity and effectiveness of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) and other layers of protection.
• Develop and manage safety procedures, operating manuals, and emergency response plans.
• Investigate incidents and near-misses, identifying root causes and implementing corrective and preventative actions.
• Perform safety reviews for new projects, modifications, and management of change (MOC) processes.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections of plant operations and equipment.
• Provide training and guidance to plant personnel on process safety principles and practices.
• Maintain detailed safety documentation and records.
• Stay updated on evolving safety regulations and technologies within the chemical industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process safety engineering, preferably within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• Proven experience in conducting HAZOP studies, LOPA, and other risk assessment methodologies.
• Strong understanding of PSM elements, including MOC, PSSR, incident investigation, and mechanical integrity.
• Familiarity with SIL assessment and verification for Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal abilities.
• Knowledge of relevant South African safety regulations and international standards (e.g., OSHA, IEC 61508/61511).
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment in the Western Cape is beneficial.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits package.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and advanced training.
• A strong safety culture and supportive work environment.
• Contribution to ensuring safe and sustainable chemical manufacturing operations.