Senior Chemical Engineer - Process Safety

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Annual bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in Process Safety for our client in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role leads PHAs, develops PSM systems, ensures regulatory compliance, and guides engineering and operations teams in safety practice.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, 8+ years in chemical engineering with 5+ in process safety, and strong leadership and communication skills, plus CCPSC desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 8+ years in chemical engineering with at least 5 years in process safety.
• Experience conducting PHAs (HAZOP, LOPA, FMEA).
• Familiarity with OSHA PSM and EPA RMP.
• CCPSC certification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate PHAs (HAZOP, LOPA, FMEA) across facilities.
• Develop and maintain Process Safety Management (PSM) systems.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices.
• Conduct safety audits and facility inspections.
• Investigate incidents and determine root causes.
• Provide process safety training to staff.
• Review designs for safety implications.
• Develop emergency response plans.
• Stay updated on process safety advancements.

Skills

Process safety expertise

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Regulatory interpretation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the energy and chemical processing sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Chemical Engineer specializing in Process Safety to join their operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This critical role involves ensuring the highest standards of safety are maintained across all chemical processes and facilities. The Senior Chemical Engineer will lead and contribute to process hazard analyses (PHAs), develop safety procedures, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements. This is an opportunity to work in a technically challenging environment and make a significant contribution to maintaining operational integrity and protecting personnel and the environment. We are dedicated to fostering a proactive safety culture. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in chemical process safety and a deep understanding of risk management principles.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain Process Safety Management (PSM) systems and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and industry best practices.
• Conduct safety audits and inspections of chemical processes and facilities.
• Investigate incidents and near-misses, identifying root causes and recommending corrective actions.
• Provide technical expertise and training on process safety principles to engineering and operations staff.
• Review process designs and modifications for safety implications.
• Develop emergency response plans and procedures.
• Stay current with advancements in process safety technology and regulatory changes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in chemical engineering, with at least 5 years focused on process safety.
• Proven experience in conducting various types of PHAs.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM elements (e.g., OSHA PSM, EPA RMP).
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, equipment, and potential hazards.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and standards.
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CCPSC) are highly desirable.
• Willingness to be based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, and potential for annual bonuses. The role provides excellent opportunities for professional development, advanced training in process safety, and career progression within a leading industry organization. Employees in Mossel Bay, Western Cape will work in a state-of-the-art facility with a strong emphasis on safety and innovation. Additional benefits include generous leave entitlements, life assurance, and participation in company-wide improvement initiatives. This is a crucial role for ensuring operational safety and continuity.