Junior EHS Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a Junior Environment, Health, Safety, and Security (EHSS) Specialist to join our team in Athlone, Ireland. This role involves supporting the ongoing implementation and enhancement of EHSS programs within a pharmaceutical manufacturing setting encompassing laboratories, warehouses, utilities, and support departments. The Specialist will collaborate with operations, engineering, and projects teams to ensure adherence to legal requirements, corporate policies, and best industry practices while fostering a robust safety culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in deploying and maintaining the site’s Health and Safety Management System.
• Carry out regular workplace inspections, audits, and compliance checks.
• Facilitate risk assessments and oversee the application of corrective measures.
• Support permit-to-work systems and contractor safety coordination.
• Track compliance with relevant health and safety legislation and company policies.
• Encourage behavioral safety practices and employee participation in safety initiatives.
• Contribute to commissioning and qualification processes including Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR) and commissioning walks.
• Assist in investigations concerning incidents, near misses, and unsafe situations.
• Help administer environmental monitoring and waste management programs.
• Promote sustainability projects and environmental enhancements.
• Take part in regulatory inspections and audits.
• Create and deliver EHSS induction and training sessions to employees and contractors.
• Support the creation of safety campaigns and communications.
• Provide EHSS advice to employees, contractors, and project groups.
• Conduct internal EHSS inspections, audits, and compliance assessments.
• Generate EHSS performance reports and metrics.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Occupational Environmental Health & Safety, Engineering, Science or related discipline required.
• Professional Health & Safety certification mandatory.
• Good knowledge of Irish Health & Safety legislation essential.
• Experience with ISO 14001 and/or ISO 45001 is advantageous.
• 3 to 5 years of EHSS experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, or regulated manufacturing environments.
• Proven experience conducting risk assessments and workplace safety inspections.
• Involvement in incident investigations and corrective action processes preferred.
• Familiarity with EHS management systems, regulatory compliance, and GMP environments is beneficial.
• Experience delivering training and engaging employees in EHSS programs.
• Exposure to engineering projects, contractor management, environmental systems, and participation in design reviews, HAZOPs, and HAZIDs is a plus.

Competencies and Skills

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Capable of influencing and engaging stakeholders at multiple organizational levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Organized with effective time management capabilities.
• High attention to detail in all work areas.
• Proficient in report writing and delivering presentations.