Senior Process Safety Engineer - Petrochemicals

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Training and conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Safety Engineer for a leading chemical manufacturer in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on developing and overseeing robust safety management systems across operations to protect people and the environment.

You will lead PHAs (HAZOP/LOPA/FMEA), manage mechanical integrity, investigate incidents, and deliver training. Pr.Eng or equivalent is highly desirable, with 8+ years in process safety.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• ≥8 years in process safety in chemical/petrochemical industries.
• Knowledge of OSHA PSM, EPA RMP, CCPS guidelines.
• Experience with PHAs.
• Strong mechanical integrity and risk-based inspection knowledge.
• Analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Familiarity with process simulation and safety analysis tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder influence.
• Pr.Eng or equivalent certification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive process safety management programs.
• Conduct PHAs such as HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA.
• Oversee mechanical integrity of critical process equipment.
• Investigate incidents and root causes; develop corrective actions.
• Provide technical guidance on process safety to teams.
• Develop and deliver training on process safety.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards.
• Maintain and update safety documentation.

Skills

Process safety engineering

PHAs (Hazop/LOPA/FMEA)

Mechanical integrity

Safety documentation

Stakeholder influence

Education

Chemical Engineering degree

Pr.Eng desirable

Tools

Process simulation software

Safety analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the chemical manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Process Safety Engineer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This is a critical role focused on ensuring the highest standards of safety are maintained across all operational processes, contributing to the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and employee well-being. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in developing, implementing, and overseeing robust safety management systems. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex projects and contribute significantly to the operational integrity of a major industrial facility. We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented individual with a proven track record in process safety within the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive process safety management (PSM) programs in accordance with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct thorough Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) such as HAZOP, LOPA, and FMEA studies for new and existing processes.
• Oversee the mechanical integrity of critical process equipment, ensuring regular inspections, testing, and maintenance.
• Investigate incidents and near misses, identifying root causes and developing corrective and preventive actions.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on process safety matters to project teams, operations, and maintenance personnel.
• Develop and deliver training programs on process safety procedures and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local and international safety regulations and standards.
• Maintain and update safety documentation, including operating procedures, safety manuals, and risk assessments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process safety engineering within the chemical or petrochemical industry.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety standards (e.g., OSHA PSM, EPA RMP, CCPS guidelines).
• Proven experience in conducting various types of Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs).
• Strong understanding of mechanical integrity principles and risk-based inspection methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in process simulation software and safety analysis tools is advantageous.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including an attractive base salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous retirement fund contribution. Employees will also benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, including specialized training and conference attendance. The role is based in the vibrant city of Pietermaritzburg, offering a good work-life balance. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in a challenging and rewarding environment within a company dedicated to safety and innovation.