OQ
Head of Process Safety (Refining & Petrochemicals)
- Permanent
- Sohar, Oman
- Experience 10 - 15 yrs
Job expiry date: 14/11/2025
Job overview
Date posted
30/09/2025
Location
Sohar, Oman
Salary
Undisclosed
Compensation
Comprehensive package + relocation
Experience
10 - 15 yrs
Seniority
Senior & Lead
Qualification
Bachelors degree
Expiration date
14/11/2025
Job description
The Head of Process Safety at OQ Refineries and Petrochemicals (RPI Operations) in Suhar, Oman, is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and governance of process safety standards across MAF, SR, AP, Polymer Operations, and NGLE. Reporting to the VP of Assets Development, this role encompasses oversight of process safety systems, audits, training, incident investigations, and compliance with local and international standards. The role manages process safety budgets and ensures integration of safety systems from design through operations. Key tasks include conducting risk studies (PHA, HAZOP, SIL, QRA, LOPA), managing mechanical integrity strategies, advising on process modifications through MOC reviews, leading design reviews, ensuring equipment safety compliance, and driving continuous improvement of safety culture. The role includes direct supervision of a team of senior process safety engineers and requires cross-functional collaboration with operations, engineering, planning, and external stakeholders. A minimum of 10 years' experience in refining or petrochemical process safety management is required, along with strong knowledge of relevant regulations, process safety methodologies, and hazard mitigation practices.
Required skills
Key responsibilities
- Oversee the development and implementation of process safety strategies, plans, and governance across RPI assets
- Develop and enforce process safety policies and procedures to comply with regulatory requirements and industry best practices
- Lead process safety risk assessments such as PHA, HAZOP, SIL, QRA, and LOPA for existing and new facilities
- Ensure integration of safety requirements in design and engineering deliverables including PFDs, P&IDs, shutdown and control philosophies
- Conduct regular process safety audits and incident investigations, ensuring thorough documentation and corrective actions
- Develop process safety training programs and workshops to enhance organizational safety awareness and competency
- Provide subject matter expertise during technical reviews, management of change processes, and equipment specification
- Monitor implementation and compliance of process safety systems and performance indicators across all operational assets
- Manage the Process Safety budget, strategic planning, and alignment with RPI goals to ensure timely project execution
- Produce and present performance reports on plant safety, availability, and reliability to senior leadership and stakeholders
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external parties (vendors, insurers) to resolve technical safety issues
- Lead and mentor the process safety team, ensuring knowledge transfer, task delegation, and performance optimization
Experience & skills
- Hold a university bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical, or instrument engineering
- Have a minimum of 10 years of experience in process safety management within refining or petrochemical industry
- Demonstrate strong knowledge of process safety regulations and international best practices
- Exhibit experience in risk and HAZOP management, including the preparation of safety systems documentation
- Possess hands-on experience with design reviews, SIL system assessments, and safety critical equipment identification
- Have proven capability in leading process safety incident investigations and audits
- Display familiarity with OSHA requirements, HSE plans, and risk-based process safety methodologies
- Hold or be working toward Certified Process Safety Professional (CSP) certification
- Be proficient in computer tools including Microsoft Office and safety management software
- Show excellent communication, leadership, mentoring, and cross-functional collaboration skills
