SHEQ Officer (SHEQ25) at Oceana Group Limited

• Blue Continent Products is seeking a dedicated and proactive SHEQ Officer to ensure the highest standards of Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality across our trawling fleet.
• This is a critical role for an individual who is passionate about Maritime Safety and Compliance. The successful candidate will be the primary link for our vessels at sea and our shore-based operations, driving SHEQ initiatives, managing risk, and ensuring full legal and company compliance.
• Exceptional report-writing skills are essential for this position.

Key Job Outputs:

Vessel Compliance & Certification:

• Ensure compliance with all SAMSA, DFL, and other applicable marine statutory requirements.
• Manage and ensure the validity of all vessel certificates and documentation.
• Ensure that all DFFE permit conditions and local laws are met at all times.

SAMSA & Specialist Audits:

• Plan, conduct, and manage the full scope of mandatory SAMSA audits, including but not limited to:
• Hull & Structural Integrity Audits
• Safe Manning Audits
• Health & Crew Welfare Audits
• Quality Audits (Documentation and Food Safety)
• Conduct scheduled Maritime Occupational Safety (MOS) audits on board vessels.
• Manage the audit findings process, ensuring corrective and preventative actions are implemented and closed out.
• IOPP

Risk Management & Assessment:

• Conduct regular vessel-based and onshore Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA).
• Coordinate and facilitate external risk audits, including MARSH risk audits and other insurer-driven assessments.
• Implement and monitor risk control measures and advise management on risk mitigation strategies.
• Maintain the company's risk register for the fleet and relevant onshore facilities.

Incident Investigation & DOL/COID Administration:

• Ensure all incidents and injuries are documented, investigated, and reported to relevant internal stakeholders and the relevant authorities as required.
• Perform root cause analysis and ensure effective recommendations are implemented to prevent recurrence.
• Administer all Injury on Duty (IOD) claims and liaise with the Department of Labour (DOL) as required.
• Manage the crew’s COID claims.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare detailed and accurate reports for all audits, inspections, incident investigations, and risk assessments.
• Collate, analyse, and report SHEQ data and statistics for comprehensive monthly and quarterly management reports.
• Maintain precise and organized records of all SHEQ activities for management review and external audit purposes.

Operational SHEQ Execution & Crew Engagement:

• Conduct regular SHE inspections on vessels and onshore support facilities.
• Ensure scheduled emergency drills are carried out and evaluated.
• Serve as the primary onshore contact for Vessel Safety Officers, providing support and obtaining scheduled checks and reports during trips.
• Drive continuous improvement and company SHE initiatives.
• Coordinate and review contractors’ SHE files, ensuring legal compliance (COID, public liability insurance).

Knowledge, Skills and Attributes: 

• Incident Investigation and Root Cause Analysis certification.
• PST, PSSR, MFF, or MFA training.
• Knowledge of food safety and quality standards (HACCP) within a marine context.
• Valid driver’s license and own reliable transport (non-negotiable).
• High level of computer literacy (MS Office Suite).
• In-depth knowledge of relevant National (Merchant Shipping Act, MOS regulations, OHS Act, COID) and International marine statutes and regulations.
• Excellent report-writing and documentation skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and professional reports for various audiences.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on, practical, and proactive approach to the job.
• Ability to work independently and manage the SHEQ function for a dispersed fleet.
• Highly flexible, motivated, and willing to travel to vessels in various ports as required.
• Strong analytical skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Willingness to work irregular hours – nightshift; weekend working when required to respond to marine incidents or attend to vessels in port.

Qualifications and Experience: 

• National Diploma in Safety Management, Nautical Science, or a related field/experience.
• SAMTRAC, NEBOSH certificate, or equivalent Safety Officer training.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of relevant SHEQ experience within a marine/maritime/fishing environment.
• Proven experience in IOD administration and liaison with the South African Department of Labour.
• Proven experience in conducting SAMSA audits and risk assessments.
• Experience with ISM Code implementation.
• Previous experience liaising with marine insurers or risk engineering firms.
• Previous experience on trawlers.

Essential Behavioural Competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity, accountability, and strong attention to detail.
• Works effectively under pressure and collaborates well with teams across vessels and shore operations.
• Shows initiative, adaptability, and clear communication in dynamic maritime environments.
• Leads by example, promotes safety awareness, and applies sound problem-solving and decision-making.
• Committed to continuous learning and staying current with industry regulations and best practices.