Process Safety Engineer - Chemical Plant Operations

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Safety Engineer for a hybrid role in Vereeniging. You will lead the development and oversight of Process Safety Management, conduct PHAs (HAZOP/What-If/FMEA), investigate incidents, and drive improvements across procedures and training.

The role requires a chemical engineering background with 5+ years in process safety, familiarity with OSHA/Seveso, and strong analytical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process safety engineering within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements and risk assessment methodologies.
• Familiarity with relevant safety codes, standards, and regulations.
• Experience conducting and facilitating PHAs.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes and equipment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• CSP certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive Process Safety Management (PSM) programs.
• Conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) including HAZOP, What-If, and FMEA studies.
• Investigate incidents and near-misses, performing root cause analyses and recommending corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations and industry standards (OSHA, Seveso).
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for plant personnel.
• Review engineering designs and modifications to ensure process safety is integrated.
• Manage mechanical integrity programs for critical equipment.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of operating procedures and emergency response plans.
• Conduct safety audits and inspections of plant facilities and operations.
• Promote a proactive safety culture throughout the organization.

Skills

Process safety engineering

Hazard analysis

PHAs (HAZOP/What-If/FMEA)

Root cause analysis

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Related technical field

Tools

PSM standards

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major chemical producer, is seeking a dedicated Process Safety Engineer to enhance safety protocols and risk management strategies at their facility in Vereeniging . This role is paramount in ensuring the safe design, operation, and maintenance of chemical processes, safeguarding personnel, the environment, and company assets. You will be responsible for implementing and overseeing Process Safety Management (PSM) systems, conducting hazard analyses, and promoting a strong safety culture. The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of chemical engineering principles, extensive knowledge of safety regulations, and practical experience in risk assessment techniques. This hybrid role requires a blend of on-site plant activities and office-based analysis, supporting operations in Vereeniging . It’s an excellent opportunity to build a career focused on critical safety aspects within the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive Process Safety Management (PSM) programs.
• Conduct Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, What-If, and FMEA studies.
• Investigate incidents and near-misses, performing root cause analyses and recommending corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., OSHA, Seveso).
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for plant personnel.
• Review engineering designs and modifications to ensure process safety is integrated.
• Manage mechanical integrity programs for critical equipment.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of operating procedures and emergency response plans.
• Conduct safety audits and inspections of plant facilities and operations.
• Promote a proactive safety culture throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process safety engineering within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements and risk assessment methodologies.
• Familiarity with relevant safety codes, standards, and regulations.
• Experience conducting and facilitating PHAs.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes and equipment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Certification such as CSP (Certified Safety Professional) is a plus.
• Must be able to work on-site in Vereeniging as required for the hybrid role.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
• A key role in ensuring operational safety and integrity.
• Work within a company committed to high safety standards.
• Supportive team environment.
• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.