Head : Occupational Health, Safety & Environment (AD05) (AD.05.3)

Wits University; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Johannesburg is looking for an experienced OHS&E Manager. The role involves creating comprehensive safety policies, ensuring compliance with legislation, and promoting sustainability initiatives. The ideal candidate will hold a relevant Bachelor's degree, have over 10 years of experience in OHS&E, and possess certifications in SAMTRAC and/or NEBOSH. Strong leadership and auditing skills are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• More than 10 years of experience in OHS&E Management.
• Experience managing and developing teams.
• Registration with a recognized OHS&E Professional Body.

Responsibilities

• Create safety policies and procedures for the University.
• Monitor compliance with OHS legislation.
• Conduct audits to identify improvement areas.
• Develop training programs for safety education.
• Manage sustainability strategy implementation.

Skills

Knowledge of OHS&E legislation

Training program development

Strong auditing skills

Effective relationship building

Sustainability practices

Education

Bachelor's degree in OHS&E field

Postgraduate qualification at NQF level 8

Tools

ISO 9001

ISO 45001

ISO 14001

SAMTRAC

NEBOSH Certification

Job description

Brief Description

Key responsibilities and activities include the following :

• Create comprehensive safety policies and procedures tailored to the University’s needs. Ensure these documents are accessible and regularly updated.
• Monitor and ensure adherence to relevant legislation, including the OHS Act, NEMA, COID Act, NBR Act, and Fire Services Act.
• Perform regular internal audits and inspections to identify non-compliance issues and areas for improvement.
• Develop and deliver targeted training programs to educate staff, students, and contractors on safety protocols and their responsibilities.
• Lead on the implementation of the University’s sustainability strategy and plans in areas related to the University’s own carbon footprint.
• Create and implement systems to ensure compliance with NEMA and other environmental regulations.
• Promote recycling programs, waste reduction strategies, energy‑efficient practices, and sustainable transportation options.
• Conduct regular assessments of air and water quality, waste management practices, and energy consumption.
• Streamline reporting processes for workplace injuries and illnesses, ensuring timely and accurate reporting to the Department of Employment and Labour.
• Proactively manage the process of retrieving funds due to the University under the COID Act.
• Build strong relationships with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry experts to ensure effective OHS&E systems.
• Ensure the appointment of Section 16.1 appointees who are responsible for the overall management and control of the University’s OHS&E compliance. This includes delegating specific duties to Section 16.2 appointees while maintaining accountability.
• Perform regular performance management reviews for all staff.
• Develop and manage the OHS&E departmental budget to ensure cost‑effective service delivery. Required Academic Qualification / s, competences, and experience.
• A relevant Bachelor’s degree in the OHS&E field and postgraduate qualification at NQF level 8 would be preferred;
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience in an OHS&E Management Environment, 3‑5 years of which must have been at a tactical and managerial level.
• SAMTRAC and / or NEBOSH Certification.
• Registration with a recognised OHS&E Professional Body.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Certificates on ISO Management Systems: Specifically, ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and ISO 14001, or NOSA 5 Star Navigator certification.
• Knowledge of environmental management systems and sustainability practices and reporting systems.