At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Health and Safety Officer in developing policies and advising on health and safety matters.
- Company: Join Usdaw, one of the UK's largest trade unions, dedicated to supporting workers' rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexitime, generous holiday entitlement, free health assessments, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health and safety while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of health and safety law and the ability to communicate complex concepts simply.
- Other info: This is a temporary role for up to 12 months, covering maternity leave.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers is one of the UK's largest trade unions. A vacancy exists for a Temporary Health & Safety Advisor based at the Union's Head Office. This position is temporary for up to 12 months to cover maternity leave.
What we Offer:
- Flexitime
- 34 hours week
- Defined contribution pension
- Generous holiday entitlement – 24 days rising to 32 days plus bank and customary holidays (pro-rata to commencing month in holiday year and number of days a week worked)
- Free onsite parking, subject to availability
- Cycle to Work Scheme (subject to passing probation and length of contract)
- Season Ticket Loan (subject to length of contract)
- Free health assessments (post probation)
Principal duties are: to support the work of the Health and Safety Officer in developing policies on health and safety; advise members and officials of the Union on health and safety matters; raise awareness and generate activity on health and safety issues; assist in the general work of the Legal Services Department.
The successful applicant will possess: knowledge of occupational health and safety issues and of the basic framework of health and safety law; knowledge of the trade union role in health and safety and the trade union approach to health and safety issues; knowledge of UK and international health and safety developments; the ability to analyse and advise on technical material and interpret data on health and safety issues; the ability to communicate technical concepts and information in layperson's terms to non-technical persons (members and reps); the ability to prioritise work, meet deadlines and display well-developed planning and organisational skills.
An application pack can be downloaded from here by clicking on the ‘apply’ button. The closing date is noon on Friday, 27 June 2025. Interviews are expected to take place in either week commencing 21 or 28 July 2025. CVs are not accepted. No agencies please. Usdaw is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Contact Detail:
USDAW Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary Health & Safety Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK health and safety regulations and guidelines. This will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the health and safety sector, especially those involved with trade unions. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully communicated complex health and safety concepts to non-technical audiences. This skill is crucial for the role and showcasing it can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers thoroughly. Understanding their mission and values will help you align your answers during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Temporary Health & Safety Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and required skills for the Temporary Health & Safety Advisor position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that addresses your knowledge of health and safety issues, your understanding of the trade union role, and your ability to communicate complex information clearly. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the position and the organisation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any previous experience related to health and safety, particularly in a union or advisory context. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to analyse data and advise on health and safety matters.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at USDAW
✨Know Your Health & Safety Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of occupational health and safety issues, as well as the basic framework of health and safety law. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're well-prepared for the role.
✨Understand the Trade Union's Role
Familiarise yourself with the trade union's approach to health and safety issues. This understanding will help you articulate how you can contribute to the Union's goals and support its members effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. The ability to communicate complex information to non-technical individuals is crucial for this role, so think of examples where you've done this successfully in the past.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you prioritise work and meet deadlines. Share specific examples from your previous experience that highlight your planning and organisational skills, as these are key attributes for the position.