WHS & Projects Leader: Defence Tech (12-Month Contract)

Nova Partners Executive Search & Selection; Canberra; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Nova Partners Executive Search & Selection in Canberra ACT is seeking an experienced Work Health and Safety (WHS) Lead/Manager – Projects for a 12‑month contract with potential extension, within a leading defence technology group. This role focuses on delivering priority WHS improvement initiatives across the business, not day‑to‑day site safety management.

Reporting to the Chief People Officer, you will lead projects from assessment through design, implementation and handover, covering chemical

Qualifications

• Experience delivering WHS projects within a complex regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of Commonwealth WHS Act, Regulations, Codes of Practice and WHS principles.
• Formal qualification in WHS, OHS or risk management.
• Project management qualification or proven track record.
• Experience with ISO 45001-aligned WHS management systems.
• Australian citizenship with Baseline Security Clearance and ability to obtain NV1.

Responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of safety improvement projects from assessment to handover.
• Hazardous chemical management with framework reviews and controls.
• Update emergency plans and support exercises.
• Improve contractor safety onboarding, induction, and risk assessment.
• Establish training and competency verification for safety-critical roles.
• Review and update WHS policies and documents to align with workflows.
• Develop project plans, milestones and governance for project delivery.

Skills

WHS management

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Regulatory compliance

Hazardous chemicals management

Emergency planning

ISO 45001 knowledge

Defence/regulated sector experience

Education

Diploma/Degree in WHS/OHS or risk management

Job description

Nova Partners Executive Search & Selection in Canberra ACT is seeking an experienced Work Health and Safety (WHS) Lead/Manager – Projects for a 12‑month contract with potential extension, within a leading defence technology group. This role focuses on delivering priority WHS improvement initiatives across the business, not day‑to‑day site safety management.

Reporting to the Chief People Officer, you will lead projects from assessment through design, implementation and handover, covering chemical