HSE Decommissioning & CDM Apprentice - Offshore Wind in Swindon

RWE Offshore Wind is offering an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to start a career in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) within offshore wind. This 2-year apprenticeship is designed to develop practical and strategic HSE capability by embedding the apprentice within an experienced team focused on providing strategic Decommissioning and CDM (Construction Design and Management Regulations) skills to support a range of construction and decommissioning projects.

The apprenticeship follows the UK apprenticeship model with approximately 20% off-the-job learning delivered by an accredited training provider and 80% structured on-the-job learning within RWE teams. Upon completion, the apprentice will achieve a Level 3 Safety, Health and Environment Technician qualification and meet the criteria for IOSH Technical Membership (TechIOSH).

Purpose of the role

To support HSE activities across the project lifecycle (construction and decommissioning) while developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for a future role as a HSE Advisor (CDM specialist) within offshore wind construction and decommissioning projects.

Key learning areas

• Project HSE management across development, construction, commissioning and decommissioning phases
• Construction health and safety risk profiles in offshore wind projects
• Contractor and package interface management
• Hazard identification, risk assessment and control measures (RAMS support)
• Incident reporting, investigation support and lessons learned
• Permit to Work systems and site rules
• Behavioural safety and workforce engagement
• Emergency preparedness and response arrangements
• HSE legal requirements relevant to UK construction and offshore activities
• HSE management systems and project-specific procedures

Key responsibilities (under supervision)

• Support HSE Managers with day-to-day HSE activities on assigned projects
• Assist with review of contractor RAMS, method statements and risk assessments
• Participate in site inspections, audits and safety walks
• Support incident, near-miss and hazard reporting and follow-up actions
• Assist with preparation and review of project HSE documentation
• Support contractor onboarding and induction processes
• Participate in HSE meetings, toolbox talks and safety briefings
• Contribute to monitoring and reporting of HSE performance indicators
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and lessons learned processes

Operational exposure

• Regular work within project offices and construction environments
• Planned short-term secondment (approx. one month) to an Operations site to build operational and offshore hazard awareness
• Offshore and nearshore exposure where required, including work from vessels

Entry requirements

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade A*–C (or equivalent), including English and Maths
• Good written and spoken English
• Basic IT skills, including common office applications
• Ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues, contractors and stakeholders
• Genuine interest in health, safety, wellbeing and environmental protection
• High ethical standards and a responsible attitude to safety
• Ability to work methodically and follow procedures
• Will be at least 18 years old at the start of employment (GWO requirement)
• Previous work experience is an advantage, but not essential.

Physical and offshore requirements

• Meets medical requirements for offshore work
• Able to work at height
• Able to swim and comfortable in water (training requirement)
• Willingness to work offshore and stay overnight on vessels when required
• Willingness to travel for training and project needs

Training and certification

• UK Government-funded apprenticeship training
• Level 3 Safety, Health and Environment Technician qualification
• IOSH Technical Membership eligibility on completion
• Global Wind Organisation (GWO) training required for offshore work will be provided by RWE

What we offer

• Starting salary £25,000
• Structured entry into offshore wind HSE
• Practical, direct learning within live projects
• Opportunity to develop strategic thinking as well as practical skills.
• Ongoing mentoring and supervision
• Clear development pathway towards a future HSE Advisor role
• Opportunity to build a long-term career within RWE Offshore Wind

An offer of employment in this role may require holding active or ability to pass National Security vetting to SC level. Failure to obtain and or maintain National Security Vetting to SC may result in the removal of job offers and or existing employment.

Application and message

We look forward to receiving your application, including your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are a suitable candidate for this opportunity and how it aligns with your studies and career plans. We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, age, sexual orientation, and identity. We encourage inclusion.