• Lead UWA’s specialist safety programs across engineering, chemical, radiation, and emergency domains.
• Coach and guide academic and professional leaders on proactive risk and safety management.
• Full-time appointment fixed term 20/10/2025 - 12/02/2027.
• Base salary range: $129,497 – $137,029 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area
UWA’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing Directorate leads the development and implementation of strategic health and safety initiatives across the University. The team supports staff, students, and stakeholders in maintaining a safe, healthy, and compliant work and study environment aligned with the Work Health and Safety Act 2020. This role sits within a specialist unit responsible for key risk domains including engineering, diving and boating, radiation, chemical management, and emergency preparedness.

About the opportunity

• Lead a team of WHS specialists to implement and audit UWA’s Safety Management System across complex, high-risk disciplines.
• Provide expert advice and training to academic and professional stakeholders to foster a culture of proactive risk management.
• Build and maintain pragmatic partnerships to embed safety into day-to-day operations and long-term planning.

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualification in occupational safety, science, engineering or similar, or demonstrated equivalent experience.
• Extensive experience leading safety teams and managing complex WHS issues across high-risk environments.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, coaching and communication skills, with proven ability to influence across academic and operational units.
• Knowledge and experience in developing safety management systems, risk registers, emergency planning and incident investigation.
• Ability to manage WHS audits, drive continuous improvement, and oversee specialist areas such as radiation, chemical or diving safety.

Special Requirements

• Current “C” class driver’s licence.
• Occasional travel and after-hours work may be required.
• WHS Lead Auditor, ICAM/TapRoot and Training & Assessment qualifications are desirable.

Position description:  Manager, Safety Specialists (520539).docx

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Justin Gauder, Director, Health, Safety & Wellbeing, at justin.gauder@uwa.edu.au. 

How to apply
Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Thursday, 19 June 2025

This position is only open to Current UWA staff.

About the University
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.

If you have questions, contact the person listed in the ad or email people@uwa.edu.au with the 6-digit job reference number.