At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in Human Factors strategy and delivery for safety-critical environments.
- Company: Join a leading Human Factors consultancy with a focus on client delivery and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development support.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safety-critical design while mentoring a talented team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in Human Factors and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 90000 £ per year.
The Role
As the Head of Human Factors, you will provide strategic leadership and technical authority for Human Factors across UCD. You will be accountable for setting the Human Factors vision, maintaining technical standards, assuring delivery quality, and supporting the continued growth of UCD as a leading Human Factors consultancy within safety‑critical environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Define, own, and evolve UCD’s Human Factors strategy, standards, and methodologies
- Act as technical authority for Human Factors across all projects and client engagements
- Provide assurance and oversight of Human Factors deliverables to ensure regulatory and client expectations are met
- Support bid development, proposal writing, and scope definition for Human Factors work
- Engage with clients as a trusted advisor on Human Factors Integration and safety‑critical design
- Represent UCD at design reviews, assurance panels, and senior governance forums
Leadership and Capability Development
You will be a natural leader, specifically you will:
- Lead, mentor, and develop the Human Factors team including Principal, Senior, and Junior consultants
- Set clear technical expectations and provide coaching to ensure consistent, high‑quality delivery
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and succession planning for the HF capability
- Champion UCD’s values as set out in our Credo, fostering a psychologically safe, supportive environment with a strong focus on client delivery and commercial awareness
Technical Scope
- Human Factors Integration
- Planning and governance
- Task Analysis, Error Identification, and Human Reliability Analysis
- Usability engineering and user‑centred design assurance
- Safety case and assurance support in regulated environments
- Development of HF standards, guidance, and training
Security and Regulatory Requirements
Due to the nature of UCD’s work, the role requires eligibility for UK Security Clearance. Minimum requirement is Security Check (SC); Developed Vetting (DV) is desirable for some client engagements. Candidates must be Sole British nationals with no restrictions on obtaining security clearance. Compliance with client, site, and regulatory security requirements is mandatory.
Skills and Experience
- Extensive experience delivering Human Factors in safety‑critical or highly regulated environments
- Proven experience operating as a technical authority or lead HF practitioner
- Strong knowledge of HF integration, HRA, task and error analysis, and usability engineering
- Excellent report writing, presentation, and stakeholder‑management skills
- Established and trusted relationships with clients, with the credibility to strengthen existing partnerships and create new opportunities for UCD
- Ability to balance strategic leadership with hands‑on technical involvement
Qualifications
- Degree or postgraduate qualification in Human Factors, Ergonomics, Psychology, or a related discipline
- Professional membership of a relevant body (e.g. CIEHF) is desirable
- Chartered or working towards Chartered status is advantageous
Reporting Line
The Head of Human Factors reports to the UCD Director(s) and works closely with senior leadership to shape the technical, cultural, and strategic direction of the business.
UCD’s Package
People are UCD’s greatest asset, and we offer a competitive package designed to attract and retain exceptional talent.
- Salary and Bonus: Up to £90,000 per annum, plus individual and business performance related bonus (dependent on skills and experience)
- Annual Leave: 25 days of paid leave to rest and recharge
- Bank Holidays: Take them when they suit you, allowing flexibility around your life
- Flexible Working: We consider part time hours and flexible arrangements - please indicate your preference in your application
- Pension: Employer pension contributions included
- Professional Membership: Reimbursement of fees for one relevant professional body
- Training Budget: £1,000 annual personal training and development allowance
- Share Options: Opportunity to participate in company share schemes
Head of Human Factors employer: U CD
UCD is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a competitive salary package and a supportive work culture. As the Head of Human Factors, you will lead a talented team in a psychologically safe environment, fostering innovation and collaboration while engaging with clients in safety-critical sectors. With a strong focus on professional development and a commitment to maintaining high technical standards, UCD provides a unique opportunity for meaningful and rewarding employment in the heart of the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Human Factors
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
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Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at U CD!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at U CD.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Human Factors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at U CD. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to U CD and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at U CD. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to U CD's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at U CD
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with U CD.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at U CD will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact U CD and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
