Health & Safety Advisor

Rothamsted Research is seeking a Health and Safety Advisor to join the Health, Safety and Biosafety Team and assist the team in providing expertise and advice on all matters relating to Health and Safety.

This position will implement a comprehensive health and safety management system to support scientific research, giving guidance as appropriate and monitoring compliance. The position will have responsibility for assessing and mitigating risks pertaining to a broad range of diverse activities; training laboratory personnel in safety principles; working towards continual improvement of workshop and farm areas as well as undertaking a programme of inspections to ensure compliance with regulations and best practice. The Health and Safety Advisor will also undertake administrative activities, to ensure the smooth running of committee meetings, health surveillance, occupational health services and procurement.

The diversity of activities at Rothamsted Research will allow the post holder to perform a diverse range of tasks, supporting risk and compliance within laboratory areas, growth facilities, agricultural facilities and workshops - an exciting and rewarding challenge. Much experience lies within the current team, and supportive colleagues, and this is an excellent opportunity to further develop Health, Safety and Biosafety specific skills in a supportive, yet challenging environment.

The ideal applicant will have:

• A degree or equivalent experience in a science or engineering subject
• An understanding of how companies operate safely, using a Health and Safety Management systems such as HSG65, ISO45001 or equivalent
• Knowledge of common workplace hazards such as manual handling, DSE and employee health screening programmes
• A working understanding of safety documentation such as Policies, Procedures and Guidance
• Strong oral and written communication skills, and good interpersonal skills.
• The confidence to challenge unsafe practises, but also the ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with staff at all levels of the organisation.
• A good working knowledge of Risk Assessment
• Ability to take clear, concise and accurate minutes of meetings (and follow up on action points as appropriate)
• Ability to exercise discretion and handle confidential or sensitive information

The role is full time, with a renewable fixed term of 3 years, offering a salary in the range of £29,842 - £32,315 per annum.

Interviews are expected to be held 10th – 12th July 2024