HSE Advisor
Downer · Brisbane
Zero Harm Advisor – NG4D
The Opportunity
Join Downer's NG4D team and play a key role in supporting the safe delivery of critical infrastructure projects and operational services across Australia. As a Zero Harm Advisor, you will work closely with project teams, supervisors, engineers, contractors and leaders to embed strong safety practices, provide practical advice and help drive a proactive Zero Harm culture.
This is a predominantly field-based role where you will maintain a visible presence across operational and project environments, coaching teams, identifying improvement opportunities and supporting compliance with legislative and Downer requirements. You will also contribute to reporting, investigations, assurance activities, workforce onboarding and continuous improvement initiatives.
This is a practical, influential role for a safety professional who builds trust, understands work as done, and helps teams translate safety requirements into effective operational outcomes.
What You'll Do
- Provide practical Zero Harm and environmental advice to project managers, engineers, supervisors, work crews and delivery partners.
- Maintain a strong field presence, engaging with frontline teams to support and foster what good safety looks like.
- Coach, mentor and influence operational personnel, contractors and stakeholders to understand critical risks and implement effective controls.
- Support the consistent application of legislation, The Downer Standard, client requirements, Zero Harm Management Plans and operational procedures.
- Conduct field observations, inspections, critical control verifications and audits, ensuring findings, corrective actions and non-conformances are appropriately managed and closed out.
- Lead or support incident, injury and environmental investigations, including ICAM investigations where required.
- Support injury management processes, return-to-work planning and early intervention activities where required.
- Assist project teams with the development and review of Zero Harm Management Plans, risk registers, SWMS, work instructions, inductions and operational controls.
- Support workforce and subcontractor onboarding, including document reviews, assurance activities and ongoing compliance verification.
- Ensure incidents, hazards, inspections, audits and actions are accurately recorded and managed within Downer and client systems.
- Prepare and contribute to monthly reporting, data analysis, trend identification and performance monitoring.
- Facilitate workforce consultation through field engagement, pre-starts, toolbox talks, risk assessments and learning activities.
- Promote Zero Harm awareness and support delivery of corporate and business improvement initiatives.
- Build constructive relationships with clients, contractors and regulatory stakeholders.
- Contribute to the broader Zero Harm team by sharing learnings, innovations and continuous improvement opportunities.
What You'll Bring
- Minimum Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety or equivalent recognised qualification.
- Demonstrated experience in a health and safety advisory or operational safety role within infrastructure, utilities, telecommunications, construction, maintenance or industrial environments.
- Strong understanding of health, safety and environmental management systems and their practical application in operational settings.
- Experience conducting field-based coaching, inspections, audits and assurance activities.
- Sound understanding of Australian health and safety legislation and contemporary risk management principles.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, including report preparation and presentation of information.
- Strong organisational, problem-solving and time-management skills.
- Ability to work effectively in dynamic operational environments with multiple stakeholders and priorities.
- Current driver's licence and willingness to travel as required.
- Demonstrated ability to identify risks, challenge ineffective controls and support practical improvements.
- Full working rights within Australia.
Highly Regarded
- ICAM Lead Investigator qualification or equivalent investigation experience.
- Auditor training or experience supporting audit and assurance programs.
- Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
- Experience supporting certified management systems, compliance programs and governance frameworks.
- Knowledge of Human and Organisational Performance (HOP) or contemporary learning-focused safety practices.
- Experience working within large infrastructure, utilities, telecommunications or industrial service environments.
What We Offer
- Competitive remuneration package and tool-of-trade vehicle where applicable.
- The opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects across a national portfolio.
- A collaborative Zero Harm team supported by experienced leaders and subject matter experts.
- Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities across Downer's Energy & Utilities business.
- Flexible working arrangements where operational requirements permit.
- The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to safer workplaces, stronger teams and improved operational outcomes.
- Access to Downer's employee benefits, wellbeing initiatives and reward programs.
About Downer Energy & Utilities
Downer Energy & Utilities delivers end-to-end services across essential infrastructure markets including telecommunications, power, water, industrial and energy sectors. Our teams design, build, operate and maintain critical assets that connect communities, support industry and keep Australia moving.
How to Apply
If you are a practical safety professional who thrives in operational environments and enjoys partnering with delivery teams to drive positive outcomes, we'd love to hear from you.
Submit your resume together with a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and what interests you about the opportunity.
Pre-employment requirements: The preferred candidate may be required to complete role-relevant checks, including eligibility to work in Australia, reference and qualification checks, and a pre-employment medical assessment including drug and alcohol screening.
Downer values the diverse experiences, talents and cultures of our people. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.