About Company
GraceKennedy Limited is a Jamaican multinational conglomerate, renowned for its leadership in food and general merchandise trading, financial services, and manufacturing. Established in 1922, we have grown into a diverse group with operations spanning the Caribbean, North America, and Europe. Our rich heritage is built on a foundation of quality, innovation, and a profound commitment to community development. At GraceKennedy, we pride ourselves on fostering an environment where our employees can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and grow professionally. We believe in safeguarding the well-being of our team members and maintaining the highest operational standards across all our facilities.
Job Description
GraceKennedy Limited is seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Health & Safety Officer to lead and manage our comprehensive safety initiatives within one of our dynamic industrial estate operations located in the University District, St. Andrew. This pivotal role is designed for a seasoned professional with an in-depth understanding of occupational health and safety regulations, specifically those pertinent to manufacturing, logistics, or food processing environments. As our Health & Safety Officer, you will be instrumental in cultivating a proactive and robust safety culture, ensuring strict compliance with both local and international H&S standards, and continuously driving improvements in all facets of workplace health and safety. Your core responsibilities will include the development, implementation, and rigorous monitoring of H&S programs, conducting thorough risk assessments, delivering essential safety training, and meticulously investigating incidents to prevent future recurrences. This position demands an individual who not only possesses extensive knowledge and technical expertise but also exhibits strong leadership, exceptional communication, and superior problem-solving abilities to effectively engage and influence staff and management at all organizational levels. Join the GraceKennedy team and play a critical role in upholding our unwavering commitment to protecting our most valuable asset – our people.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive Health & Safety Management Systems (HSMS) aligned with Jamaican legislation (e.g., OSHA, Factories Act) and international best practices (e.g., ISO 45001).
- Conduct regular and thorough site inspections, audits, and risk assessments across the industrial estate to proactively identify potential hazards and ensure stringent compliance with H&S policies and procedures.
- Lead the investigation of all workplace accidents, incidents, and near misses, performing detailed root cause analyses and recommending effective corrective and preventative actions to mitigate future risks.
- Design and deliver engaging and impactful H&S training programs for employees, contractors, and visitors, covering critical topics such as hazard communication, emergency preparedness, confined space entry, and machinery guarding.
- Ensure all necessary permits-to-work (PTW) are accurately issued, reviewed, and strictly adhered to for all high-risk activities.
- Prepare and submit detailed H&S reports, statistics, and performance analyses to management, highlighting key trends, performance metrics, and areas requiring continuous improvement.
- Collaborate closely with department heads and supervisors to effectively integrate safety practices into daily operational routines and foster a strong, proactive safety-first culture.
- Stay abreast of changes in H&S legislation, industry standards, and emerging best practices, advising management on necessary updates and strategic compliance measures.
- Manage the selection, inspection, and rigorous maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to ensure its suitability, effectiveness, and proper use by all personnel.
- Coordinate and regularly review emergency response plans, including fire drills, medical emergency protocols, and natural disaster preparedness procedures.
- Act as the primary point of contact and liaison for external regulatory bodies during inspections, audits, or queries related to health and safety.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in occupational health and safety management, preferably within an industrial, manufacturing, or food processing environment.
- Thorough knowledge of Jamaican H&S legislation (e.g., OSHA, Factories Act) and relevant international standards.
- Strong understanding of risk assessment methodologies, hazard identification, and control techniques.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct effective incident investigations and root cause analysis.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Ability to develop and deliver engaging and informative safety training programs.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Valid Driver's License.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a closely related field.
- NEBOSH General Certificate, IOSH Managing Safely, or an equivalent professional H&S qualification.
- Certification in First Aid and CPR.
- Experience with ISO 45001 implementation, maintenance, and auditing.
- Membership in a relevant professional H&S body (e.g., IOSH, ASSP).
- Experience in a multi-site or large-scale industrial operation.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Robust Health and Life Insurance coverage.
- Enrollment in a company-sponsored Pension Plan.
- Significant opportunities for professional development and continuous career growth within a leading regional conglomerate.
- A dynamic, supportive, and collaborative work environment.
- Employee discount programs on select company products and services.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application by clicking the link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter clearly outline your relevant experience and qualifications for this crucial role. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.