HSE Specialist

Lead Health, Safety, and Environmental Initiatives in a Research-Driven Environment

Join a team at a research facility in Cambridge specializing in early-stage research with chemistry and biology laboratories. In this interim contract role, you will serve as the primary on-site resource for Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) matters. Your focus will be on developing, implementing, and managing EHS programs that align local operations with broader organizational goals. This position requires on-call availability for after-hours emergency incidents and proximity to the Babraham site to meet operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary on-site EHS resource, providing guidance, support, and oversight for laboratory and facilities operations.
• Conduct monthly laboratory inspections to ensure compliance with UK safety standards and HSE requirements.
• Lead the review and development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory processes, safety protocols, and emergency response.
• Develop and maintain risk assessments for laboratory operations, including COSHH assessments, manual handling, and first aid.
• Provide day-to-day EHS support to both office and lab-based employees.
• Implement EHS programs and procedures in compliance with UK regulations and best practices.
• Investigate incidents and coordinate corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) following HSE guidelines.
• Manage inspection readiness for Health and Safety Executive visits.
• Lead site EHS initiatives, including safety committee activities, ergonomics support, and employee engagement programs.
• Collect and organize EHS metrics and reports for regulatory compliance.
• Conduct emergency preparedness activities and drills in line with UK requirements.
• Coordinate EHS training and communications to ensure compliance with UK training obligations.
• Provide mentorship to develop EHS competency within the site team.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

• Degree in EHS, Occupational Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Environmental Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of UK EHS regulations and laboratory safety standards.
• Experience in risk assessment, incident investigation, and CAPA processes.
• Familiarity with chemical handling, storage, and disposal procedures.
• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to work independently in a dynamic environment.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Availability for on-call emergency response and after-hours callouts.
• Professional certifications such as NEBOSH Diploma/Certificate, IOSH Managing Safely, or equivalent are preferred.
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical-biotech GxP requirements and laboratory accreditation standards (e.g., ISO 17025).