Process Safety Engineer - South England

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Process Safety Engineer to join our Client and play a key role in supporting the safe and compliant operation of the sites across the UK.

This is an exciting opportunity for a safety-focused engineering professional who is passionate about preventing major incidents and driving continuous improvement within high-hazard environments. Working closely with engineering, operations, and leadership teams, you will provide expert guidance on process safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance across a range of LPG, chemical, and oil & gas operations.

The role offers significant variety, autonomy, and the opportunity to influence safety culture across multiple operational sites.

What You’ll Be Doing As a Process Safety Engineer, you will:

Lead and participate in Process Hazard Analyses including HAZID, HAZOP, SIL, and LOPA studies
Support operational sites by identifying process safety risks and implementing effective mitigation measures
Ensure compliance with key legislation and standards including COMAH, DSEAR, and ATEX
Conduct audits and safety reviews across operational locations
Review P&IDs, PFDs, Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), and plant modifications
Investigate process safety incidents and near misses, identifying root causes and preventative actions
Provide expert guidance on emergency response planning, risk reduction, and process safety best practice
Support the development and monitoring of Process Safety Performance Indicators (PSPI’s)
Promote a strong and proactive process safety culture across the businessWhat We’re Looking For Essential Skills & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a related discipline
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a design, technical, or operational engineering role within chemical manufacturing, processing, oil & gas, or similar high-hazard industries
Previous experience working at Upper Tier COMAH sites
Strong understanding of process safety principles, hazard identification, and risk assessment methodologies
Practical experience conducting safety studies including HAZOP, HAZID, LOPA, PHR, or SIL assessments
Experience auditing safety systems and ensuring regulatory compliance
Sound knowledge of current health, safety, and environmental legislation
Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Ability to work independently, manage priorities effectively, and travel regularly across UK sites
Proficient IT and report writing skillsDesirable:
Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or working towards accreditation
Formal auditing qualification
Experience within the LPG industry or similar sectors
Knowledge of Human Factors and Human Reliability studies
Previous experience within manufacturing, chemical, or oil & gas environmentsEmployment type: 
- Permanent - Full-time

Work Locations: "Three Seats"
1- South East England - Canvey Island
2- East Anglia - Saxham 
3- South West England - Plymouth

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed