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Job Title


Head of Operational Safety: SSN AUKUS Build Program


Company : Australian Submarine Corporation


Location : Adelaide, South Australia


Created : 2025-07-17


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

ASC is Australias submarine company. We built the Royal Australian Navys Collins Class submarines, sustain them, and are now delivering their Life of Type Extension to increase the boats service lives. We have also been selected by the Australian Government to sustain and jointly build the nations nuclear-powered submarines the largest and most complex industrial undertaking in Australias history.Our work is interesting and meaningful, contributing directly to Australias national security. We offer rewarding roles that provide the opportunity to grow your career, and the flexibility to balance life and work. A career at ASC is like no other, delivering a deeper purpose we can all be proud of.About the OpportunityReporting to the GM Capability SSN AUKUS, the Head of Operational Safety, leads all operational safety aspects of the SSN AUKUS Build Program. Responsibilities include ensuring Nuclear-Powered Submarine Yard (NPSCY) design activities comply with safety practices and legislation, developing a WHSE strategy and team structure with the Joint Partner, and supporting the creation of an operational safety framework specific to the nuclear-powered submarine program. The role involves all aspects of fostering and maintaining a positive safety culture, applying technical knowledge, leadership skills, and regulatory understanding tomanage hazards, and ensuring operational environmental responsibilities are maintained. Strong influencing skills are required to integrate WHSE strategies with other functions. Flexibility in working hours and periodic overseas travel may be necessary. This structure is transitional and may change with partnership maturity.ResponsibilitiesLeadall operational safety aspects of the SSN AUKUS Build Program.EnsureNPSCY design activities support future safe working practices and comply with Federal and State legislation.Developa WHSE strategy and team structure in collaboration with the Joint Partner, suited to the current program phase.Support the development and implementation ofan operational safety framework, including policy, processes, and procedures for Production Demonstrator and NPSCY activities.Alignactivities with ASCs strategy and assist ASC in meeting relevant contractual deliverables.Promote and maintaina positive culture of safety and wellbeing across all levels of the SSN AUKUS stream workforce.Managephysical and psychosocial hazards and ensure responsible environmental management.Influencecapability and project leads to integrate WHSE strategies with other functions and line management practices.Travelperiodically or regularly overseas as required.Adjustthe structure as needed, aligned with the maturity of partnership arrangements with BAE Systems.About youTertiary qualifications in Workplace Health and Safety or related discipline is preferred.Proven extensive knowledge of relevant Workplace Health & Safety legislation and regulations. Including codes of practice and regulations.Practical experience in Work Health and Safety with a demonstrated understanding and application of relevant legislation, policies, Australian Safety Standards, and risk management practices.Demonstrated Health & Safety Systems and leadership experience within defence or related heavy infrastructure or construction sectors (7 10 years in WHSE Leadership role/s).Demonstrated ability to manage current and future risks to protect the health of employees and contractors.Experience with setting up a new program safety management system or integration of systems between existing businesses.Demonstrated experience in comprehension of Work Health and Safety and Environment Legislation in the Australian context and application of relevant standardsProven experience in successfully leading multi-disciplinary teams of safety professionals within health and safety management systems and system improvement whilst servicing multiple stakeholders within complex organisations.A clear, consultative leadership approach, providing coaching, mentoring and guidance enabling all people leaders to lead cultural and behavioural change as second nature.Sound relationship management skills across a broad stakeholder group with your ability to influence and build credibility through collaboration and delivery of major WHS&E (Work, Health, Safety & Environment) system projects.Working in a dynamic and changing environment, including management of competing prioritiesPractical operational knowledge where inputs and learnings can be provided to technical infrastructure designs and conversationsAn elevated level of organisational and time management skills, excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.EligibilityThis role requires a current National Police Clearance and an Australian Defence Security Clearance (Negative Vetting Level 1). Your eligibility for this role is dependent on you obtaining and maintaining such clearance.To check your eligibility please visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website.BenefitsUnique and challenging work with a deeper purpose.Flexibility over how, when and where you work for the best work/life balance.10 days additional leave every year so you can rest and recharge.Generous parental leave so you can give your family the focus it deserves.Subsidised childcare to ease the financial pressure on your family.Health and wellbeing initiatives so you can perform at your best at work.Professional development opportunities to advance your career.A diverse and supportive environment where you can thrive.Discounts and exclusive offers from leading Australian brands to help you save.You may be eligible for relocation assistance should you reside interstate. Adelaide, South Australia (SA), combines cosmopolitan living with natural beauty, featuring picturesque hills, renowned wineries, and stunning coastlines. As a centre for innovation, SA offers careers in defence, space and advanced manufacturing. Celebrated for its Mediterranean climate and cultural richness, Adelaide provides excellent work/life balance. Explore world-class wineries, enjoy the vibrant food scene, and experience affordable, family-friendly living in a welcoming, community-oriented city.About ASCASCs 2,400-plus staff offer a depth of submarine design, project management, supply chain, construction and engineering experience and expertise that is unparalleled in Australias defence industry. Established in 1985, the companys work on Australias conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine build and the Collins Class Life of Type Extension takes place in Osborne, South Australia, with sustainment shared across Osborne and Henderson, Western Australia. ASC also plays a leading role in training Royal Australian Navy submariners.Apply today for a career with a deeper purpose.Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may commence immediately. #J-18808-Ljbffr