Process Safety Lead

Process Safety Lead – Chemical Engineering / Manufacturing

Location:

County Durham, North East England

The Role

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Process Safety Lead to take ownership of process and chemical safety across a large-scale, high-technology manufacturing facility. The role focuses on embedding a strong safety culture, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing expert chemical engineering guidance across site operations.

Key Responsibilities

* Lead and embed a strong process and chemical safety culture across the site

* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, guidance, and internal procedures

* Act as technical authority for HAZOP and CHAZOP studies and develop Cause and Effect Safety Matrices

* Identify, assess, and control hazards associated with chemical plants, waste streams, and equipment

* Provide chemical engineering and plant design expertise to support safe and efficient operations

* Develop and deliver site-wide process and chemical safety awareness training

* Oversee chemical handling, storage, waste management, and recycling streams

* Lead continuous improvement initiatives within facilities and cleanroom environments

* Monitor, report, and act on leading and lagging safety indicators

* Develop, review, and maintain operating procedures and safety documentation

* Support incident investigations and corrective actions

* Liaise with regulatory bodies and external consultants as required

Ideal Person

* Degree qualified in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry

* Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a chemical engineering or chemistry role within manufacturing

* Experience working with hazardous chemicals and chemical plant

* Proven experience developing and implementing process safety systems

* Strong knowledge of HAZOP and CHAZOP methodologies

* Familiarity with ISO
14001 and ISO
45001 standards

* NEBOSH Diploma with a minimum of 3 years’ relevant experience

* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

* Ability to coach, mentor, and work collaboratively across teams

* Able to work on site at the County Durham plant, facility whihc is conveniently commutable from Sunderland, Newton Aycliffe, Darlington, Hartlepool and surrounding areas.

Why Apply

* Key technical leadership role with real influence on site safety and operations

* Opportunity to shape and strengthen process safety culture in a growing manufacturing environment

* Exposure to complex chemical plant and cleanroom operations

* Supportive organisation with a focus on professional development and progression

* Inclusive employer committed to accessibility and equal opportunity

Applicants who do not meet every requirement but can demonstrate relevant experience and potential are encouraged to apply