Process Safety Engineer

Pay Range: $100,000/yr. – $125,000/yr. based on experience and qualifications

The Process Safety Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and sustaining Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Program (RMP) systems to ensure safe, reliable, and compliant operation of regulated processes. This role provides technical leadership to reduce process safety risk, ensure regulatory compliance, and support safe facility operations. Experience with ammonia refrigeration or ammonia-based processes is strongly preferred.  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

 Process Safety Management (PSM) 

• Develop, implement, and maintain PSM programs in compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119. 

• Lead or support Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) using methodologies such as HAZOP, What-If, FMEA, or Checklist reviews. 

• Ensure timely closure and documentation of PHA recommendations. 

• Maintain Process Safety Information (PSI) including process flow diagrams, P&IDs, chemical hazard data, and equipment documentation. 

• Support and manage Management of Change (MOC) processes for process, equipment, and procedural changes. 

• Lead or support incident investigations involving process safety events and ensure corrective actions are implemented. 

• Support development and validation of operating procedures and safe work practices. 

• Participate in Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR) for new or modified processes. 

• Develop and support process safety training programs. 

• Track and report process safety metrics and performance indicators. 

 Risk Management Program (RMP) 

• Ensure compliance with EPA Risk Management Program requirements (40 CFR Part 68). 

• Maintain RMP documentation and submissions. 

• Develop and update off-site consequence analyses and prevention programs. 

• Coordinate emergency response planning and community interface requirements. 

• Support internal and external audits and regulatory inspections. 

 Ammonia Systems (Preferred Experience) 

• Provide technical support for ammonia refrigeration or ammonia-based process systems. 

• Support safe operation, maintenance, and modification of ammonia systems. 

• Identify and mitigate ammonia release risks and ensure compliance with relevant codes and standards (e.g., IIAR guidance). 

 Risk Reduction & Operational Support 

• Support engineering and operations teams in risk reduction projects. 

• Participate in facility siting, LOPA, and risk assessments. 

• Recommend engineering and administrative controls to reduce process hazards. 

• Support capital and improvement projects involving regulated processes. 

 Compliance & Continuous Improvement 

• Lead or participate in internal PSM/RMP audits and compliance reviews. 

• Track corrective actions to completion. 

• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to process safety and operational reliability. 

• Other Duties as Assigned  

REQUIREMENTS 

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline required. 

• 3–8 years of experience in process safety, chemical manufacturing, refining, food processing, or similar regulated environments. 

• Ability to travel to support multiple HMF facilities. 

• Direct experience supporting OSHA PSM programs required. 

• Experience supporting EPA RMP programs preferred. 

• Ammonia refrigeration or ammonia process experience strongly preferred. 

• Strong understanding of PSM and RMP regulatory requirements. 

• Experience conducting PHAs and risk assessments. 

• Knowledge of MOC, incident investigation, and compliance auditing. 

• Ability to interpret P&IDs and process documentation. 

• Strong communication and collaboration skills across operations and engineering teams. 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities. 

• Proficiency with process safety documentation and tracking systems. 

• Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Professional Engineer (PE), or related credential preferred. 

• Training in PHA methodologies or LOPA preferred. 

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENT:  

• Must have good vision and manual dexterity. 

• Able to sit / stand for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer. 

• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds. 

• The noise level in the office environment is typically moderate. 

• Company provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) must be worn while on the production floor