Are you an experienced Safety Leader who is passionate about building safe and supportive workplaces?
Merriwa Industries is seeking a proactive Safety Manager to lead the organisation's safety strategy, compliance and culture across multiple operational areas.
This is an opportunity to make a real difference in a values-driven not-for-profit organisation.
About Merriwa
Merriwa Industries is a well-respected not-for-profit organisation based in North East Victoria, providing employment and support services for people with disability while delivering a range of commercial services to the local community.
Merriwa is a social enterprise that is built on strong values of respect, inclusion, opportunity and safety, and they are committed to providing workplaces where every person feels valued and supported.
About The Role
Reporting to the Senior Manager Compliance, the Safety Manager will provide strategic leadership in the development, implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of Occupational Health and Safety systems and strategies, ensuring full compliance with Victorian Legislation and WorkSafe Victoria guidelines.
Key responsibilities include:
Provide critical safety support to the Senior Manager Compliance, ensuring effective workflows, clear delegation and timely delivery of targets across the safety team
Provide regular and adhoc reporting for stakeholders to demonstrate safety performance across the organisation
Develop, implement and monitor the annual OHS Operational Plan
Strengthen the OHS management framework to ensure consistent application across divisions
Conduct and oversee incident investigations ensuring corrective and preventative actions are implemented and their effectiveness verified
Support leaders with risk assessments, safety planning and hazard management
Maintain emergency preparedness across Merriwa sites
Manage risk analysis processes and collaborate on practical solutions for improvements in methods of work, traffic management, material handling, plant and equipment and ergonomic design
Deliver safety training and promoting a strong safety culture
Use data to drive decisions, leveraging Merriwa's safety management system and digital reporting tools to monitor, lead and lag indicators, conduct audits/inspections, analyse trends, and report on performance
Manage contractor and supplier safety, including pre-qualifications, inductions, permits to work, audits and assurance activities
Location: Wodonga or Wangaratta base (travel to Wangaratta will be required 3 days a week, with a pool car available for use)
About You
We are looking for someone who can influence leaders, build capability and drive continuous improvement in safety.
You will bring:
Qualifications in Occupational Health & Safety or related discipline
Comprehensive knowledge of relevant Victorian Health and Safety legislation
Experience in a safety management role, ideally within manufacturing or the disability/ not for profit sector
RTW coordinator accreditations
Proven ability to work in a collaborative team environment and demonstrated capacity to act independently within established guidelines, exercising discretion and sounds judgement
The ability to build a positive safety culture across diverse teams
Why Join Merriwa?
- Make a real impact in a community-focused organisation
- Be proud of your role in a remarkable social enterprise
- Work with a supportive and collaborative team
- Contribute to safer workplaces and employee wellbeing
- Competitive salary based on experience
Safety Manager in Wangaratta employer: Sawyer Sourcing
As a prominent community services organisation based in Wangaratta, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that champions a values-led culture and collaborative leadership. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our unique benefits, such as paid exercise breaks and health reimbursements, alongside ongoing professional development opportunities that empower our team members to grow and thrive. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying a supportive work environment that values your contributions.
