Health and Safety Manager

About the role

Avantis is seeking a Health and Safety Manager to lead safety performance across all phases of ship construction. You will work closely with project, engineering, construction and subcontractor teams to embed a proactive safety culture for a multicultural workforce.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, review and update health and safety plans, procedures and risk assessments for new‑build vessels at the Chinese shipyard.
• Lead site‑based safety audits, inspections and accident/incident investigations, delivering rapid root‑cause analysis.
• Identify and mitigate hazards related to steelwork, outfitting, heavy lifting, hot work and confined spaces.
• Manage day‑to‑day HSE performance, track KPIs and report to stakeholders and regulatory authorities.
• Provide clear safety guidance to personnel, contractors and visitors, promoting inclusive engagement.
• Deliver safety inductions and ongoing training, addressing language and cultural considerations.
• Support emergency response planning, drills and incident management on site.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years experience as a Health and Safety Manager in shipbuilding, marine, offshore or heavy industry.
• Relevant HSE qualification such as NEBOSH Diploma; maritime or China‑specific certifications are a plus.
• Strong knowledge of UK, Chinese and international HSE regulations and shipyard hazards.
• Excellent leadership, communication and influencing abilities in multicultural environments.
• Proficiency in English; Mandarin or prior experience working in China is highly desirable.
• Willingness to be on‑site at the Chinese shipyard and travel as project schedules require.

Required skills

• NEBOSH Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
• Risk assessment
• Safety audits
• Incident investigation

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead safety on high‑profile maritime projects.
• Collaborative, multicultural work environment.
• Professional development in international shipyard safety standards.