At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead risk assessments and provide hands-on safety support to frontline teams.
- Company: Join Plymouth City Council, a dynamic employer committed to health and safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Guaranteed interviews for eligible candidates; inclusive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community safety while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma or equivalent experience in health and safety.
The predicted salary is between 40777 - 45091 £ per year.
Location: Prince Rock Depot
Status: Permanent
Hours per week: 37
Weeks per year: 52
Grade: £40,777.00 to £45,091.00 pro rata (if applicable for part time)
The Role
Are you a dedicated health and safety professional who thrives in a fast‑paced, frontline environment? Plymouth City Council is seeking a Health, Safety and Wellbeing Officer to provide competent, practical advice and support to our Street Services, Fleet, and Highways teams. This isn’t just a desk job; we are looking for an operationally focused individual with a "can‑do" attitude who is eager to be hands‑on. You will be the driving force behind a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring our management systems are not just compliant on paper, but effective in the yard and on the road.
Key Responsibilities
- Risk Assessment Expertise: Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive risk assessments across all key hazard groups, including physical, substance, biological, psychological, and ergonomic risks.
- Hands‑on Inspections: Regularly carry out site and task inspections to verify that risk control systems are being implemented effectively on the ground.
- Operational Problem Solving: Use your "can‑do" approach to find creative and innovative solutions to complex safety challenges and hazardous findings.
- Active Investigations: Lead level 3‑4 incident investigations to identify root causes and ensure practical learning is embedded across the service.
- Direct Training: Design and personally deliver targeted training programmes that equip frontline staff with the skills to manage hazards effectively.
- Dynamic Support: Provide real‑time advice to ensure legal compliance while participating in an out‑of‑hours on‑call duty system.
About You
We need a proactive professional who can influence behaviours at all levels, from operative to senior management.
Essential Requirements
- Qualifications: NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma, Post Grad Diploma in H&S, or equivalent degree‑level experience.
- Experience: Proven track record in conducting risk assessments and implementing management systems like ISO 45001 or HSG65.
- Skills: Strong analytical skills to turn data into understandable management information and the ability to work alone or as part of a team.
- Mindset: A flexible worker capable of managing conflicting demands with integrity and discretion.
Desirable Criteria
- Professional registration at CertIOSH or Graduate level.
- Experience in waste management (WAMITAB) or working in a political environment, highway maintenance and natural environment services.
- Teaching/training qualifications or Mental Health First Aid certification.
We are a flexible employer and provide a variety of working arrangements tailored to the needs of each role.
Please note, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.
Plymouth City Council is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, care experience, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion/belief, sex or sexual orientation. As part of our commitment to promoting equality we offer guaranteed interviews to those who meet the essential criteria and are considered disabled, care experienced or are an Armed Forces Service Leaver within the last two years.
For more information or an informal discussion regarding this role, please contact Nick Hewett, Safety, Health and Environment Manager, on 01752 304780 or email nick.hewett@plymouth.gov.uk.
Proposed Closing date: Sunday 12 April 2026
Anticipated interview date: Wednesday 25 April 2026
Health, Safety and Wellbeing Officer in Plymouth employer: PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
Plymouth City Council is an exceptional employer that values the health and safety of its employees while fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment. As a Health, Safety and Wellbeing Officer, you will have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on frontline services, with access to ongoing professional development and a commitment to flexible working arrangements. Join us in promoting a culture of continuous improvement and making a difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Health, Safety and Wellbeing Officer in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Plymouth City Council. Understanding their values and how they operate will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your hands-on approach! Since this role is all about being operationally focused, think of examples from your past experiences where you've tackled safety challenges head-on. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your 'can-do' attitude.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your training skills! If you've designed or delivered training before, make sure to highlight this. The role requires direct training, so discussing how you've equipped others with safety knowledge will definitely catch their attention.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through our platform. It makes it easier for us to track and review your application, plus you'll get updates directly from us. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Health, Safety and Wellbeing Officer in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in health and safety. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your NEBOSH qualifications and any hands-on experience you've got!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex safety challenges in the past. We love a 'can-do' attitude, so share those creative solutions you’ve implemented that made a real difference on the ground.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and qualifications at a glance. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of health and safety regulations, especially those relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with ISO 45001 and HSG65, as well as any recent changes in legislation that could impact the job.
✨Show Your Hands-On Approach
Since this role is all about being operationally focused, be ready to share examples of how you've tackled real-world safety challenges. Think of specific situations where your 'can-do' attitude made a difference and be prepared to discuss them.
✨Demonstrate Your Training Skills
Highlight any experience you have in designing and delivering training programmes. Be ready to explain how you would equip frontline staff with the skills they need to manage hazards effectively, as this is a key part of the role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Prepare to discuss your approach to operational problem-solving. Think of complex safety issues you've faced and how you creatively resolved them. This will show your potential employer that you're proactive and can think on your feet.
