About the Role
Our client, a leader in the Oil & Gas industry, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Safety Specialist to join their team in Soweto, Gauteng . This vital role focuses on the development, implementation, and oversight of process safety management systems to ensure the highest levels of safety and environmental protection across operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting risk assessments, facilitating safety studies, investigating incidents, and promoting a strong safety culture. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of process safety principles, hazard analysis techniques (HAZOP, LOPA), and relevant regulatory frameworks. This position offers a significant opportunity to influence safety performance and contribute to operational integrity within a challenging industrial environment. We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented professional with strong analytical and communication skills, capable of driving continuous improvement in process safety practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and facilitate Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), including HAZOP, What-If analysis, and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
- Develop, implement, and maintain elements of the Process Safety Management (PSM) system.
- Conduct Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) to ensure adequate safety barriers are in place.
- Perform risk assessments and quantitative risk analyses (QRA) to identify and prioritize potential hazards.
- Develop and review safety procedures, guidelines, and operational best practices.
- Investigate process safety incidents, near misses, and deviations to identify root causes and recommend corrective actions.
- Oversee the Management of Change (MOC) process, ensuring safety implications are thoroughly evaluated.
- Develop and deliver training programs on process safety awareness and specific methodologies.
- Monitor key process safety performance indicators (KPIs) and prepare reports for management.
- Stay abreast of evolving process safety regulations, industry standards, and technological advancements.
- Provide expert advice and guidance on process safety matters to operational teams and project stakeholders.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Minimum of 7-9 years of progressive experience in process safety engineering within the Oil & Gas or petrochemical industry.
- In-depth knowledge and practical experience with PHA methodologies (HAZOP, LOPA, FMEA).
- Strong understanding of Process Safety Management (PSM) principles and elements.
- Familiarity with relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., API, OSHA, IEC).
- Proven experience in incident investigation and root cause analysis techniques.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Proficiency in relevant safety software and risk assessment tools.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
- Generous annual leave and holiday schedule.
- Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and certification.
- A chance to significantly impact safety culture and performance.
- Supportive and team-oriented work environment.