Senior Sheq Officer

Rite Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A Food Manufacturer in Johannesburg seeks a solutions-driven Senior Safety Officer to lead safety compliance efforts. The ideal candidate will implement safety policies, conduct risk assessments, and foster a strong safety culture within the organization. Strong knowledge of safety legislation is essential. This leadership role requires excellent communication and organizational skills, promoting safety best practices across all levels of the company.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of relevant safety legislation such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in conducting hazard identification and risk assessments.
• Ability to investigate workplace incidents thoroughly.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Competence in using software for reporting and record-keeping.
• Ability to influence adherence to safety guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Create, implement, and update safety policies and procedures.
• Conduct hazard identification and risk assessments.
• Ensure compliance with Occupational Health & Safety regulations.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs.
• Investigate workplace accidents and injuries.
• Maintain records of safety inspections and reports.
• Collaborate to promote a strong safety culture.
• Oversee the use of personal protective equipment.

Skills

Legislative Knowledge

Communication

Risk Assessment

Investigation

Organizational Skills

Technical Proficiency

Leadership

Job description

Overview

SUMMARY :

A Food Manufacturer situated in City Deep Johannesburg is seeking a solutions-driven leader with a passion for food safety and compliance. The ideal candidate will thrive in challenging environments where collaboration and innovation make the difference.

This is a critical leadership role for a team player who is strong and resilient — someone who can unify stakeholders, lead with authority, and ensure our factory not only passes audits but becomes a benchmark for excellence.

A Senior Safety Officer develops and implements workplace safety policies, conducts risk assessments and inspections, ensures compliance with health and safety regulations, investigates incidents, provides training, and manages safety records and reporting. This role requires strong knowledge of safety legislation, risk management principles, and effective communication to foster a strong safety culture and ensure the well-being of employees.

POSITION INFO :

Key Responsibilities

• Policy & Procedure Development: Create, implement, and update safety policies, procedures, and SHE (Safety, Health, Environment) plans in line with regulations.

• Risk Management: Conduct hazard identification, risk assessments (HIRA), and implement appropriate control measures to mitigate risks in machinery, plant layout, and job functions.

• Compliance & Audits: Ensure full compliance with Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) and environmental regulations, conducting internal audits and inspections.

• Training: Develop and deliver safety training programs, including site inductions for new employees and contractors, to enhance safety awareness.

• Incident Investigation: Investigate workplace accidents, injuries, and near-misses to determine root causes and implement preventative actions.

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of safety inspections, incident reports, training sessions, and legal appointments.

• Reporting: Prepare and submit regular reports on safety activities, compliance, and incidents to management.

• Safety Culture: Collaborate with management and employees to promote and foster a strong safety culture throughout the organization.

• Equipment & Materials: Oversee the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure all necessary equipment is inspected and functional.

Key Skills & Qualifications

• Legislative Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of relevant safety legislation, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) and environmental regulations.

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey safety information and collaborate with various stakeholders.

• Risk Assessment: Proficiency in conducting hazard identification and risk assessments.

• Investigation: Ability to thoroughly investigate workplace incidents and recommend corrective actions.

• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and maintain records.

• Technical Proficiency: Competence in using relevant software and systems for reporting and record-keeping.

• Leadership: Ability to influence and motivate others to adhere to safety guidelines and best practices.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documentation :

• Qualifications
• 2 x most recent payslips

Only candidates meeting the specified criteria will be considered.

If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks of submitting your application, please consider your application unsuccessful. We thank all applicants for their interest.