Specialist: Construction Safety (M001135) at North West University

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

• Responsible for overseeing, coordinating and managing the construction health and safety performance and compliance of NWU as client for construction projects conducted. To develop, implement and monitor construction health and safety programmes and processes that ensure compliance with OHS legislative requirements at the NWU.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Physical infrastructure projects - concept and design phases:

Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and especially the Construction Regulations during concept and design phases.

• Maintain records in terms of a master list for construction OHS for all projects. 
• Compile projects specific OHS specifications and baseline risk assessment per project and submit within due date.
• Attend all planning meetings and advise on OHS requirements to ensure compliance.
• Review and update NWU OHS specifications format and baseline risk assessment; in line with legislation changes. 

Construction plan and file assessments:

• Assess, discuss, and approve contractor’s OHS plans in accordance with the Construction Regulation and NWU Project OHS Specifications. Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and address non-compliances effectively.

Construction Projects: OHS reporting and audits:

Ensure compliance with OHS legislation and maintain and improve OHS compliance at NWU.

• Complete construction work permit process and ensure permits are submitted timeous to Department of Employment and Labour. 
• Conduct audits and risk management for assigned construction projects.
• Ensure appointed OHS consultants conduct audits and inspections as per agreed appointment – oversee ad coordinate.
• Attend site meetings and provide feedback on OHS compliance status / actions required to principal agents and project managers.
• Report and take action on high risks and non-compliances.
• Conduct close out report on projects.
• Monthly consolidated construction OHS reports and presentations.
• Conduct Incident Investigation. 

Minimum requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree / Baccalaureus Technologie degree (NQF Level 7) in Safety/ Built environment. 
• Registration as a construction Health and Safety Manager with (SACPCMP)- Pr.CHSM. 
• A minimum of 5 years of safety management experience. 
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in construction OHS auding and reporting. 
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in construction health and safety management – all stages of a construction project.

ADDED ADVANTAGE/ RECOMMENDATION:

• A Postgraduate Management qualification (NQF Level 8). 
• Registration as a construction Health and Safety Agent with (SACPCMP)- Pr.CHSA.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Experience in the implementation and management of construction safety management systems. 
• In depth knowledge of OHS Legislation. 
• Knowledge of conducting risk assessment, OHS budgets, OHS specifications and auding. 
• Computer literacy: MS Office. 
• Excellent written, communication and reporting skills. 
• Compile SHE budgets and cost estimates. 
• Excellent resource allocation and time management skills. 
• Knowledge of JBCC contracts in terms of OHS. 
• Experience in management of multiple projects simultaneously.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Team leader and team player (positive social and interpersonal skills). 
• Able to operate independently with delegated authorities. 
• Strategic thinker and planner. 
• Ability to work under pressure and high demand.

Apply by: 8 September 2026