Process Safety Manager

About the role

Kern Energy is seeking a Process Safety Manager to oversee and manage the Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Programs (RMP) for the facility, ensuring full compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. This role is responsible for ensuring the safety of employees, the environment, and the communities in which we operate by identifying and mitigating process safety risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting a strong safety culture. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern’s core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Responsibilities

• Own the development, implementation, and maintenance of a comprehensive Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Plan (RMP) program covering all elements of refinery PSM and CalARP Program 4, including process hazard analysis, management of change, pre-startup safety reviews, and incident investigation.
• Conduct proactive hazard identification, assess risk, and develop and implement appropriate measures to control or eliminate them.
• Ensure that all process safety procedures, standards, and regulations are followed.
• Develop and support training on process safety topics and ensure personnel are effectively trained.
• Lead and coordinate process safety audits and assessments, and develop and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Develop and track process safety goals. Track and report key leading and lagging indicators to drive continuous improvement opportunities and closure of process safety recommendations.
• Work closely with operations, maintenance, engineering, and other departments to ensure process safety considerations are integrated into all aspects of the refinery's operations.
• Engage with Cal/OSHA and other regulators to address inspection findings, respond to information requests, and demonstrate compliance.
• Develop and implement emergency response plans and procedures, and ensure all personnel are trained in them.
• Lead, facilitate, and participate in incident investigations, document root causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent future incidents.
• Ensure all process safety-related documentation and records are properly maintained and up-to-date.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in process safety technology and regulations, and provide guidance and recommendations to management on implementation.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the Process Safety department.
• Manage Process Safety Advisor and Coordinators.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, process safety, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in process safety management in an oil refinery or similar process industry.

Skills

• In-depth knowledge of process safety regulations, standards, and best practices.
• Strong working knowledge of Cal/OSHA Sections 5189 and 5189.1, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119, EPA 40 CFR Part 68, and California CalARP requirements.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to interpret PFDs, P&IDs, relief system documentation, control narratives, equipment files, operating procedures, and process safety information.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with process safety management software and tools.
• Certified Process Safety Professional (CCPS) or equivalent certification preferred.