Health and Safety Officer (Estates & Facilities)

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. 

We are ambitious and have a bold vision of what we want to achieve - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world, which we are achieving through the talents and endeavour of every employee.  

Our culture empowers people to achieve this aim and to collectively, and individually, make a real difference.  

Are you passionate about health and safety, ensuring legal compliance, and driving operational excellence? Join the University of Surrey as a Health & Safety Officer and play a vital role in maintaining the safety and compliance of our dynamic and diverse operational estate, spanning 400,000 m² and 260 buildings across multiple campuses.

This hands-on, operational role is ideal for someone with a proactive mindset, excellent attention to detail, and a commitment to promoting a safe working environment.

Reporting to the Head of Operations, and working closely with the Compliance Manager, Head of Maintenance, and other key stakeholders to ensure safety controls, documentation, and inspections are implemented effectively and audit ready.

About the Role

As the Health & Safety Officer, you will:

• Manage operational safety: Conduct inspections, review risk assessments, and ensure statutory compliance across fire safety, electrical/mechanical systems, Legionella, asbestos, and more.
• Collaborate and coordinate: Work with internal teams and external auditors to implement safety measures, track actions, and maintain the Estates Compliance Register.
• Deliver training and promote safety culture: Provide toolbox talks, inductions, and coaching to staff and contractors, fostering a positive safety environment.
• Maintain documentation and systems with the compliance administrator: Ensuring accurate record-keeping, input data into digital compliance systems, and compile reports.
• Drive continuous improvement: Analyse trends, benchmark performance, and contribute to initiatives that enhance safety and compliance.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Holds a NEBOSH National General Certificate or equivalent.
• Has proven experience in a professional health and safety role or in Estates/Facilities Management.
• Is skilled in preparing and reviewing risk assessments, conducting inspections, and implementing safe systems of work.
• Demonstrates excellent observation skills, accuracy, and attention to detail.

How to apply

To apply please upload a CV and cover letter outlining why you are suitable for the position.

Please note this position will be employed by Operate Surrey Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Surrey.

Further details

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply online' button above.
 
In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate, flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Wednesday 21 January 2026

Advert information