Lead EHS Specialist

Role Overview

The EHS Specialist plays a critical role in delivering safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible operations within a complex heavy manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities Operational Execution of EHS Strategy

Translate the site-wide EHS strategy into actionable operational plans and day to day activities. Lead the rollout of safe systems of work, compliance, risk assessments, procedures, and training across production, maintenance, and construction areas. Support implementation and maintenance of ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 management systems. Produce and monitor site KPIs, developing collaborative action plans to enhance behavioural EHS. Deputise for the Senior EHS Leader as appropriate.

Construction & Expansion Project Support

Provide hands on EHS oversight throughout the factory extension project, supporting the Senior EHS Leader and construction partners. Conduct site inspections of construction activities including lifting operations, hot works, working at height, traffic management, excavation, and contractor performance. Monitor compliance with CDM requirements and construction phase plans, escalating risks promptly.

Site Security

Support the strategy and daily governance for site security, ensuring the facility remains protected during both normal operations and the high risk construction period. Collaborate with stakeholders to complete security risk assessments covering physical, personnel, and operational security. Maintain access control systems, perimeter protection, CCTV, intruder detection, and security protocols for visitors and contractors. Maintain emergency preparedness and response plans, including fire, security breaches, evacuation, terrorism threats, and business continuity. Liaise with local authorities, emergency services, and relevant national security bodies as needed.

Site Level EHS Operations & Risk Control

Lead routine EHS operations across the site, ensuring inspections, audits, and statutory checks (LOLER, PUWER, LEV, pressure systems, etc.) are completed. Deliver toolbox talks, safety briefings, and targeted EHS interventions with frontline teams. Maintain and continuously improve risk assessments, COSHH documentation, incident reporting, emergency procedures, and safe operating procedures. Support the occupational health programme, including noise, vibration, welding fume, and exposure monitoring activities.

Incident Management & Investigation

Act as the first line lead for incident response, immediate corrective actions, and containment. Coordinate evidence gathering, root cause analysis (5 Why, fishbone, etc.), and contribute to investigation reports. Track completion of corrective and preventive actions, ensuring systemic improvements are delivered.

Contractor & Workforce Engagement

Act as the onsite operational contact for contractors, ensuring compliance with induction processes and permit to work systems. Coach supervisors and team leaders on EHS responsibilities, hazard recognition, and behavioural safety. Foster a culture of openness, reporting, and proactive risk management.

Environmental Compliance & Monitoring

Support day to day environmental monitoring including waste segregation, emissions control, spill response, and permit compliance. Conduct environmental inspections and ensure environmental controls are maintained during construction and manufacturing processes. Promote site sustainability initiatives in line with corporate goals.

Data, Reporting & Continuous Improvement

Maintain accurate EHS records, KPI dashboards, and site reporting. Analyse EHS performance trends and recommend improvements to processes, training, and controls. Drive continuous improvement activities aligned with operational excellence, lean principles, and best practice.

Qualifications

• NEBOSH General Certificate (minimum), with NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience in an operational EHS role within heavy manufacturing, engineering, fabrication, or industrial environments.
• Practical understanding of UK legislation including CDM 2015, HSWA, COSHH, LOLER, PUWER, and RIDDOR.
• Experience working with contractors and supporting construction or CAPEX projects.
• Strong communication and influencing skills with ability to engage operational teams.

Desirable Skills

• Experience in high hazard industries (power generation, turbines, rotating equipment, foundry, forging, machining).
• Internal auditor qualifications (ISO 45001 / ISO 14001).
• Knowledge of environmental permitting and monitoring.
• Incident investigation training.

Security Clearance

This work is undertaken with UK Defence customers which will require any individual applying for the role to hold or be capable of getting SC Level clearance as a UK Passport holder. Applicants not cleared will not be accepted into the business until this clearance is provided. Dual passport holders are acceptable if the second country is approved by the vetting authority.

This is a site based role at the Rugby manufacturing site.