Description
The Health and Safety Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient production operations by driving compliance with the Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act, ISI policies, and industry best practices. This position leads risk assessments, hazard identification, and workplace investigations while educating employees to foster a strong safety culture. Acting as the subject matter expert for gas-free certification, the specialist oversees confined space and hot work protocols, ensuring all hazards are assessed, controlled, and clearly communicated before work begins—because safety isn’t just a priority, it’s our foundation.
Responsibilities
- Mentor all personnel, including subcontractors, and model positive behaviors to support professional development and competency within the HSE team.
- Review and update HSE policies and procedures to align with provincial regulations and CSA standards.
- Conduct new hire orientations, develop training programs, and educate employees on OHS practices.
- Perform focused safety inspections across facilities, participate in workplace investigations, and attend JOHSC meetings.
- Act as the subject matter expert for gas testing operations, confined space entries, and hot work certifications. Complete risk assessments, hazard identification, and ensure all mitigations are in place before work begins.
- Calibrate and maintain gas monitoring instruments to ensure accurate atmospheric testing.
Qualifications
- Post Secondary OHS Diploma or certification. A combination of knowledge and experience would also be considered.
- Minimum of 5 to 8 years of demonstrated success in a safety role in an industrial environment.
- Ability to obtain National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) designation (or equivalent), Authorized Gas Free Testing qualification, First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, and WHMIS training & certifications.
- Ability to facilitate training and conduct effective presentations to provide sound professional advice and direction for health and safety related matters within various levels of the organization.
- Working knowledge of provincial and federal OHS legislation.
- Experience in root cause analysis with keen investigation and analytical skills.
- Proficiency with various Microsoft Office products.
- Ability to communicate with and influence front line workers and supervision.
- Strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.
- Availability to work overtime and across various shifts, as required, to support Production and other business priorities.
Due to the nature of work Irving Shipbuilding does, all successful applicants must meet requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), Canadian Government Security clearance, and U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Please note this position requires a full-time, in-office presence.
The successful candidate will be required to complete a standard drug and medical assessment prior to employment.
