Health and Safety Officer

Job Title: Health and Safety Officer

Location: Ballymena

Hours: 37

Duration: 2 months (with possible extension)

Our client, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, is seeking to appoint a Health & Safety Officer to support the delivery of the Council's Corporate Health and Safety function. Reporting to the Health & Safety Manager, the successful candidate will provide professional advice, guidance and support to managers and employees, ensuring compliance with health and safety legislation, Council policies and best practice while promoting a safe and healthy working environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Health & Safety Management

• Support the development, implementation and review of the Council's Health & Safety Framework, policies and procedures.
• Provide day-to-day health and safety advice and guidance to managers and employees across all Council services.
• Assist in setting Health & Safety objectives, monitoring performance and reporting on key performance indicators.
• Support the implementation and maintenance of the Council's health and safety management software and related systems.
• Respond to health and safety enquiries and provide practical solutions to support compliance.

Compliance, Auditing & Risk Management

• Carry out workplace inspections, audits and investigations, producing reports and recommendations to improve health and safety performance.
• Monitor compliance with health and safety legislation, approved codes of practice and Council procedures.
• Assist in maintaining health and safety records, risk management processes and statutory compliance.
• Support the preparation of monthly, quarterly and annual performance reports and committee papers.

Training & Development

• Identify health and safety training needs and assist in planning, coordinating and delivering training programmes, including employee induction.
• Maintain accurate training records and support compliance with mandatory training requirements.
• Promote health and safety awareness across the organisation through guidance, communication and best practice initiatives.

Projects & Continuous Improvement

• Support the delivery of health and safety projects and initiatives that improve organisational performance and employee wellbeing.
• Keep up to date with changes in health and safety legislation and emerging best practice, ensuring these are reflected in Council procedures.
• Represent the Council on regional health and safety working groups and forums as required.

Corporate Responsibilities

• Assist with employee relations matters relating to health and safety in partnership with Human Resources.
• Contribute to audit processes, risk management and continuous service improvement.
• Deputise for the Health & Safety Manager when required.
• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion and ensure compliance with Council policies, governance arrangements and statutory obligations.

General Responsibilities

• Uphold the Council's values and contribute to the achievement of its Corporate Plan.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, accountability and customer service.
• Comply with all Council policies, including Health & Safety, Equality, Data Protection and Records Management.
• Participate in the Council's Performance and Development Review process and undertake continuous professional development.
• Carry out any other duties appropriate to the grade and responsibilities of the post.

Essential Criteria:

• Degree (or equivalent) and NEBOSH Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (or equivalent).
• Eligible for IOSH Technical Membership or willing to achieve this within two years.
• At least two years' experience in a Health & Safety Officer or similar role (or four years' relevant experience where formal qualifications are not held).
• Experience providing health and safety advice within a large organisation.
• Experience developing and implementing health and safety policies and procedures.
• Experience working with managers, employees and Trade Union representatives.
• Good knowledge of health and safety legislation and best practice.
• Strong communication, organisational and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage priorities, solve problems and drive continuous improvement.
• Full UK driving licence and access to suitable transport.

• Experience within Local Government or the wider public sector.

To be shortlisted for this role all applicants MUST meet the essential criteria. If you are interested please upload your CV to the link provided, and Mia Taylor will be in contact to confirm if you have been shortlisted.