An exceptional opportunity has emerged for a seasoned, proactive, and strategic HSE Manager to join a premier, fast-growing engineering and manufacturing organisation based in SE Melbourne.
We are seeking a dynamic leader to drive and embed a high-performance safety culture across a multi-site operation encompassing heavy fabrication workshops, complex Defence manufacturing, projects, and corporate environments.
This is a dual-focused role that perfectly bridges the gap between executive strategy and hands-on site support. You will have the autonomy to shape corporate HSE frameworks while actively collaborating with workshop teams and leadership to ensure safety is woven into the DNA of daily operations.
Key Responsibilities
... Strategic HSE Leadership: Design, implement, and evolve a proactive Health, Safety, and Environmental strategy aligned with business objectives and strict Defence sector standards.
Systems & Compliance Management: Develop, maintain, and continuously improve robust HSE management systems (aligned with ISO 45001 and ISO 14001) ensuring absolute compliance across all jurisdictions.
Culture & Change Management: Act as a collaborative "change agent," partnering with leadership and front line workshop teams to lead safety change from reactive compliance to proactive care.
Risk & Hazard Mitigation: Facilitate comprehensive risk management processes, conduct site inspections, and implement effective controls for high-risk manufacturing and engineering activities.
Incident Investigation: Lead thorough incident and near-miss investigations utilising root-cause analysis methodologies, ensuring corrective actions are effectively embedded.
Contractor & Stakeholder Management: Oversee contractor HSE prequalification, monitor compliance, and act as the key liaison for regulators, clients, and external stakeholders.
Audit, Training & Insights: Deliver engaging site-based safety initiatives, toolbox talks, and internal audits while providing senior leadership with meaningful HSE trend reporting and data insights.
Skills and Experience Required
Industry Experience: 8–10+ years of proven experience in HSE leadership roles within heavy manufacturing, engineering, construction, or complex Defence fabrication environments.
Qualifications: Tertiary qualification in Work Health & Safety, Environmental Management, or a related discipline. ICAM investigation training and Lead Auditor credentials (ISO 45001 / 14001) are highly regarded.
Dual Capabilities: Proven ability to operate seamlessly in both corporate/strategic settings and hands-on workshop/project environments.
Regulatory Expertise: Deep, up-to-date knowledge of WHS and environmental legislation, compliance requirements, and risk frameworks.
If you're keen on applying for this role, please submit an application now or send an email to Rohan at Rohan.cantleysmith@randstad.com.au to discuss these roles further in detail and in confidence.
Ref/ RANDEF
At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.