Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Principal Product Safety Engineer to lead safety efforts within a high-impact defence project. This role is crucial in ensuring that all product safety requirements are meticulously derived, managed, and that safety management systems are robustly implemented. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in safeguarding compliance with industry standards, ensuring our client’s products are not only safe but exceed the expectations of their end users. With a focus on the defence sector, this is a role for a specialist who thrives in high-performance environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Product Safety Leadership: Advise senior project and engineering teams on all aspects of product safety, ensuring safety is integral to every stage of product development.
- Compliance Management: Lead the derivation of safety requirements, ensuring all products meet industry regulations and are safe for operational use.
- Safety Documentation & Systems: Manage safety cases, develop compelling safety arguments, and oversee the implementation and maintenance of the Safety Management System to enhance operational safety and efficiency.
- Hazard Mitigation: Identify and evaluate potential hazards, manage safety assessments, and coordinate risk mitigation strategies to uphold the highest safety standards.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with third-party stakeholders to gather critical evidence for Design Safety Justification (DSJ) reports and lead the development of Project Safety Management Plans.
- Team Leadership: Act as a line manager to safety practitioners, providing guidance and fostering their professional growth.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant STEM discipline (Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Science).
- Extensive knowledge of industry safety standards, such as Def Stan 00-55, 00-56, and IEC 61508.
- Proven experience in the defence, maritime, or other regulated sectors, with a strong track record of executing safety engineering tasks.
- Strong leadership skills, with experience chairing hazard identification and safety-related meetings.
- Ability to produce and present clear, logical, and well-structured safety cases and technical arguments.
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.
- Knowledge of broader Safety Case, Quality, and Health, Safety and Environmental (HS&E) Management System documentation.
- Experience delivering training in the Product Safety and Environmental domains.
- Excellent technical writing skills, with a proven ability to create high-quality safety documentation.
About the Client
Our client is a respected leader in the defence sector, renowned for their commitment to excellence, innovation, and safety. They pride themselves on delivering cutting-edge solutions that protect and enhance the operational capabilities of their customers. As an employer, they are dedicated to creating a culture of growth, collaboration, and innovation, making this an exceptional opportunity for candidates looking to make a real impact in the defence industry.
Career Growth and Opportunities
This role offers significant opportunities for professional development, with clear pathways for progression into senior leadership roles. As a Principal Product Safety Engineer, you will have the chance to work on complex and challenging projects, further honing your expertise in safety management within the defence sector. The client is committed to supporting continuous professional development, including pathways towards Chartered status for ambitious candidates.
Work Environment and Culture
Our client fosters a collaborative and inclusive working culture, where every team member is valued for their expertise. The role offers hybrid working, with up to three days a week required in the Surrey office, and flexibility to work remotely the rest of the time. The team operates in a high-performance environment, adhering to the strict standards expected within the defence industry while ensuring a supportive and collaborative team dynamic.
Application Process
If you are a highly skilled and motivated Principal Product Safety Engineer, we would love to hear from you. The recruitment process will involve an initial phone interview, followed by a technical assessment and final interview with senior management. Our team will be on hand to support you throughout the process, ensuring a smooth and transparent experience.