Senior Process Safety Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer for our client in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will lead PHAs, develop and maintain PSM programs, and drive safety across plant operations.

The role emphasizes risk assessment, incident analysis, and robust safety procedures, with opportunities to mentor teams and influence stakeholders. A strong background in regulatory compliance and CSP/CIOSH certifications is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical/Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in process safety engineering, preferably in chemical/petrochemical.
• Experience with HAZOP/LOPA/What-If PHA methods.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA PSM and Seveso directives.
• Familiarity with South African safety regulations.
• CSP or CIOSH certifications desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead PHAs (HAZOP/HAZID/What-If) for new and existing processes.
• Develop and implement Process Safety Management programs.
• Review Management of Change safety implications.
• Analyze incident data and perform RCAs with corrective actions.
• Develop safety procedures, operating guidelines, and emergency plans.
• Conduct QRAs as needed.
• Provide technical process safety guidance to teams.
• Carry out safety audits and inspections.
• Stay updated on process safety regulations and trends.
• Champion a strong safety culture.

Skills

PHA methodologies

Process safety management

Root cause analysis

Regulatory compliance

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Consequence modelling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the industrial chemicals sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Process Safety Engineer to join their operations in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This critical role is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of process safety are maintained across all plant operations. You will lead and participate in safety studies, develop safety procedures, and contribute to a strong safety culture. This position is ideal for a proactive safety professional dedicated to mitigating risks and safeguarding personnel and assets. The role involves a blend of on-site assessments and analytical work, offering a dynamic and impactful career path.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, HAZID, and What-If studies, for new and existing processes.
• Develop and implement Process Safety Management (PSM) programs in accordance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Conduct safety reviews for Management of Change (MOC) proposals, ensuring safety implications are fully assessed.
• Analyze incident data, conduct root cause analyses (RCAs), and develop corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Develop and maintain safety procedures, operating guidelines, and emergency response plans.
• Perform Quantitative Risk Assessments (QRAs) where necessary.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on process safety principles to engineering and operations teams.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to ensure compliance and identify potential hazards.
• Stay updated on process safety regulations, standards, and emerging trends.
• Champion a strong safety culture throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process safety engineering, preferably within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with PHA methodologies (HAZOP, LOPA, What-If).
• Strong understanding of Process Safety Management (PSM) elements (e.g., OSHA PSM, Seveso Directive).
• Experience with risk assessment tools and consequence modeling software is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CSP, CIOSH) are highly desirable.
• Familiarity with South African safety regulations.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance-related bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits scheme comprising medical aid and retirement contributions.
• Professional development is strongly encouraged through training programs and opportunities to attend industry conferences.