HSE Compliance Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of strict regulatory requirements, the importance of HSE Compliance Officers is more significant than ever.

As businesses evolve and expand, the demand for professionals who can ensure, maintain, and optimize health, safety, and environmental compliance grows exponentially.

But what exactly is expected from an HSE Compliance Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of HSE compliance,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a tailor-made HSE Compliance Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve straight into it.

HSE Compliance Officer Duties and Responsibilities

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Compliance Officers enforce safety policies and regulations to create a risk-free environment within an organization.

They ensure the employer complies with all health and safety laws to reduce workplace accidents and protect employees.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing, implementing and managing the company’s health and safety strategy and initiatives
• Conducting risk assessments, workplace inspections, and audits to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety regulations
• Developing and delivering health and safety training programs for employees
• Advising and assisting management on HSE matters, including incident investigations and risk assessments
• Ensuring the company is prepared to deal with emergencies by establishing and executing emergency procedures
• Maintaining accurate records of incidents and producing statistical reports for management
• Reviewing and updating company policies in line with changes in legislation and best practice
• Working closely with operational staff to ensure health and safety measures are practical and understood
• Ensuring proper use of safety equipment and that regular maintenance checks are carried out
• Staying updated with new legal regulations in health and safety and implementing any changes in the company’s policies

 

HSE Compliance Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Compliance Officer to ensure our company adheres to legal standards and in-house policies.

The responsibilities include enforcing regulations in all aspects and levels of business as well as provide guidance on compliance matters.

The successful candidate should be well-versed in legal guidelines and corporate governance best practices.

They must be professionals of high ethical standards and work diligently to complete their duties keeping in mind the objectives of the business.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement company policies and regulations.
• Understand and apply legal standards and regulations.
• Conduct employee training on compliance-related topics, policies, or procedures.
• Identify compliance issues that require follow-up or investigation.
• Disseminate written policies and procedures related to compliance activities.
• Prepare reports related to compliance and regulatory inspections.
• Ensure all employees are educated on the latest regulations and processes.
• Resolve employee concerns about legal compliance.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Compliance Officer or Compliance Manager.
• Experience in risk management.
• Knowledge of legal requirements and controls (e.g. Anti-Money Laundering, or AML).
• Familiarity with industry practices and professional standards.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Integrity and professional ethics.
• Teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Professional certification (e.g. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)) is a plus.
• BSc/BA in law, finance, business administration or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: HSE Compliance Officer
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional field visits. Some travel may be required for regulatory meetings or inspections.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Compliance Manager or Head of Compliance.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $125,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an HSE Compliance Officer Do?

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Compliance Officers work in various industries, from construction and manufacturing to oil and gas, ensuring that organizations comply with established health, safety, and environmental policies.

Their primary role is to develop, implement, and oversee occupational health and safety programs within an organization to reduce risks, prevent accidents and illnesses, and ensure adherence to laws and regulations.

They conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance with HSE procedures, identify potential hazards, and implement corrective measures.

This could involve ensuring machinery is maintained and operated correctly, or that hazardous substances are correctly used and stored.

HSE Compliance Officers also provide training and education to employees about safety standards and company policies.

They are responsible for creating comprehensive safety reports and maintaining accurate documentation of incidents and actions taken.

They may work closely with management teams to develop long-term strategies for health and safety, including disaster preparedness plans and emergency response procedures.

Furthermore, they are often responsible for ensuring the organization’s environmental compliance, minimizing the company’s environmental footprint, and promoting sustainable practices.

 

HSE Compliance Officer Qualifications and Skills

An effective HSE Compliance Officer should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Understanding of legal health and safety guidelines, ensuring that all practices are in compliance with them.
• Ability to develop, implement and enforce policies that reduce the risk of occupational hazards, using their knowledge of operational risk management.
• Strong communication skills to clearly and effectively explain the importance of safety regulations to employees and management.
• Excellent attention to detail to identify potential hazards and non-compliance issues.
• Problem-solving skills to develop solutions to potential health and safety risks.
• Experience in conducting safety inspections and ensuring continuous monitoring and adherence to safety procedures.
• Interpersonal skills to liaise with and influence stakeholders at all levels, from workers on the floor to senior management.
• Proficiency in preparing reports and policies towards the prevention of incidents and accidents.
• Knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices and the ability to guide the correct handling and use of such substances and procedures.
• Physical ability to conduct workplace inspections and audits.

 

HSE Compliance Officer Experience Requirements

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Compliance Officers typically need to have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in HSE roles, or related fields such as Environmental Health, Industrial Safety, or Occupational Health and Safety.

This experience provides them with valuable insights into the practical aspects of environmental health and safety regulations.

During their career progression, these professionals often gain experience in conducting safety audits, incident investigations, risk assessments, and developing as well as implementing HSE policies and procedures.

HSE Compliance Officers can gain initial experience in roles such as HSE Assistant, Safety Coordinator or Environmental Health and Safety Specialist.

These roles provide a hands-on understanding of industry safety standards, laws, and regulations.

Those with more than 5 to 7 years of experience are usually considered for senior roles, as they are expected to have a strong understanding of HSE management systems.

Such professionals may have also gained experience in conducting training sessions, managing HSE teams, and preparing reports for regulatory bodies.

For managerial positions, experience in leadership roles within the HSE domain is often required.

This could include roles such as HSE Manager or Senior HSE Advisor, where they would have been involved in strategic planning, program management, and stakeholder communication.

 

HSE Compliance Officer Education and Training Requirements

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Compliance Officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety or a related scientific or technical field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering.

In some cases, relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

However, formal education often provides a more comprehensive understanding of regulatory standards, risk management, and environmental science.

Further, many employers prefer candidates with a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) designation.

Achieving these certifications involves passing examinations and demonstrating a level of professional experience.

Master’s degrees in occupational health and safety, environmental science, or related fields could provide an edge in the job market, especially for senior or managerial roles.

It is also important for HSE Compliance Officers to continue their education throughout their careers.

As regulations and industry standards evolve, professionals need to stay updated to ensure their companies remain in compliance.

Moreover, excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, along with a thorough understanding of regulatory processes, are essential for this role.

Practical experience gained through internships or entry-level positions can also be highly beneficial.

 

HSE Compliance Officer Salary Expectations

An HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Compliance Officer earns an average salary of $69,800 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary greatly depending on the level of experience, the industry of employment, qualifications, and the location of the job.

 

HSE Compliance Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an HSE Compliance Officer need?

HSE Compliance Officers need to have a strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations.

They should also have excellent analytical skills to identify potential hazards and risks within an organization.

Communication and interpersonal skills are crucial as they have to deliver safety training to employees and report to the management.

 

Do HSE Compliance Officers need a degree?

Yes, HSE Compliance Officers generally need a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, safety management, or a related field.

Some companies may prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

Additionally, they must have relevant certifications, such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

 

What should you look for in an HSE Compliance Officer resume?

When reviewing an HSE Compliance Officer resume, you should look for a solid educational background in health and safety coupled with relevant certifications.

Experience in implementing and managing safety programs is a must.

It’s also beneficial if the candidate has knowledge of your industry’s specific safety concerns and regulations.

 

What qualities make a good HSE Compliance Officer?

A good HSE Compliance Officer is proactive, detail-oriented, and has a strong commitment to safety.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills to find the best ways to mitigate risks and a keen eye for identifying potential hazards.

They should also be able to communicate effectively and build good relationships with both employees and management.

 

What are the main responsibilities of an HSE Compliance Officer?

HSE Compliance Officers are responsible for creating, implementing, and overseeing health and safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.

They conduct regular audits and inspections, identify potential hazards, and ensure corrective measures are taken.

They also provide training to employees on safety practices and regulations and maintain compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate details of what it means to be an HSE Compliance Officer.

Guess what?

It’s not solely about following policies and regulations.

It’s about ensuring a safer, healthier workplace, one compliance check at a time.

Armed with our handy HSE Compliance Officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed for action.

But why halt your momentum?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every compliance check contributes to the grand scheme of safety.

Let’s build that safer future. Together.

How to Become an HSE Compliance Officer (Complete Guide)

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