This is not your typical safety role. We’re looking for someone who can get in amongst it someone who knows how to turn safety from a “policy and paperwork” function into something that actually lives and breathes on the ground. You’ll be stepping into a newly created role with real influence. The brief is simple (but not easy): lift safety performance across a network of busy waste and recycling sites and help prevent the incidents that actually matter. What you’ll be doing You’ll be the go-to safety leader across 10 operational sites partnering closely with Site Managers, coaching them to own safety outcomes, and lifting the capability of Site Safety Officers. This is a hands-on role. You’ll be out in the field, not watching from afar. On any given week, you’ll be: Working side-by-side with site leaders to embed safety into day-to-day operations Coaching and developing Safety Officers so they’re sharper, more consistent, and more effective Getting out on site regularly to make sure critical risks are understood and controlled Leading investigations into serious incidents and near misses focusing on root cause, not blame Tightening up systems, reporting, and processes so they actually work in the real world Lifting the quality of documentation, reporting, and overall safety discipline across the business Acting as the key contact for regulators when required This is about real risk - heavy mobile plant, high traffic volumes, fire risk, hazardous materials - not just ticking compliance boxes. What makes this role different It’s operational, not corporate You’ll be expected to lead from the front, not manage from a distance You’ll need to influence experienced operators and “old school” leaders It’s about coaching and capability building, not policing Who you will be working for: This privately owned recycling and resource recovery business has 10 sites operating across South-East Queensland with a Brisbane CBD Fringe Head Office. They focus on diverting waste from landfill through innovative recycling processes, particularly construction and industrial materials and offering tailored waste solutions to commercial and infrastructure clients. It has a strong emphasis on sustainability, compliance, and improving environmental outcomes for its customers. With continued planned growth, it is investing in advanced recovery capabilities and expanding its operational footprint. What we’re looking for You’ve spent time in high-risk environments and know what good looks like on the ground. To be considered you must have: At least 8 plus years in a high risk operating environment such as waste management, recycling, mining, heavy manufacturing, or construction materials. Tertiary qualifications in a related field are mandatory Solid practical experience leading across multiple sites (5), not just a single operation. A strong technical comprehension of WHS legislation and the capability to practically apply it. The ability to influence operators, supervisors, and senior leaders alike. A genuine preference for being on site talking to crews, not just reviewing reports. Proficiency in safety management software and advanced skills in all Microsoft programs. Excellent writing skills to prepare succinct incident reports for the Executives. If you’ve got the following you will really appeal to our client: ISO 45001 Lead Auditor or ICAM (or similar) investigation training Strong exposure to occupational health risks (e.g. silica, asbestos) The kind of person who will thrive here is A coach, not an auditor or compliance officer Practical outcomes oriented you find solutions that work, not just ones that look good on paper Comfortable in a fast-moving, chaotic, sometimes messy environment Capable of cutting through the noise, spotting risks early, and making sound calls whilst being pragmatic and able to interpret incomplete data to make decisions that balance safety with the operational realities of the sites Detailed oriented, will challenge the status quo and assumptions, who genuinely cares about getting people home safe daily and takes pride in making that happen Why this role matters There’s a real opportunity to make a tangible impact, not just on metrics, but on people. You’ll be stepping into an environment with: High operational tempo Some gaps in systems and capability A genuine need for stronger safety leadership Which means you’ll have the chance to build, influence, and improve in a way that is real. If you prefer steel caps over spreadsheets and wants to lead safety where it actually happens tell us about you Apply by clicking below quoting job ref no.1441139 SSL For a confidential discussion contact Peter Murphy on 0429 703 234.
