Title:  Contractor Safety Management Lead

We bring the energy!

Through purpose and people - not just through the infrastructure we operate, but through the way we show up for each other, our customers’ and our communities. The future of energy is in our hands. Let’s shape it together.

Are you ready to shape the future of HSE in energy?

We have an opportunity for a Contractor Safety Management Lead to establish and implement a comprehensive end-to-end contractor safety management framework, cementing what our standards are in this space.

This role defines end-to-end contractor safety lifecycle management from prequalification through to performance evaluation, building capability in contractor oversight, assurance, and relationship management, collaborating with key stakeholders to define contractor safety standards, coordinates contractor engagement programs, monitors contractor performance, and drives continuous improvement in contractor safety outcomes.

As a critical enabler of AusNets safety transformation and one of three strategic pillars, this role ensures contractors working on electricity transmission, distribution, and gas operations uphold consistent safety standards as direct employees, protecting workers, the public, and AusNet’s reputation while maintaining productive delivery partner relationships.

What you’ll help deliver

• A contractor Safety strategy & framework to cover the full lifecycle, from prequalification to offboarding
• Building capability, consistency and engagement across our contractor relationships, bringing together delivery partners for knowledge sharing, risk discussions & best practice focus, developing the safety toolkits needed
• Building internal capability in contractor oversight training AusNet operational leaders and contract managers on their contractor management responsibilities
• Conducting regular check ins with contractors and facilitate 2-way feedback, on safety performance, expectations, and improvement opportunities
• Addressing contractor concerns and challenges collaboratively finding solutions that maintain safety while supporting productive delivery
• Ensuring contractor safety management practices comply with regulatory requirements, from the WHS act, ESV, the Gas safety act and environmental protection requirements
• Evaluating and drive a continuous improvement approach & governance, analysing contractor safety data identifying performance trends, risk patterns, and improvement opportunities
• Collaborating with the lines of business to design and implement comprehensive first line of defence assurance programs that verify the effectiveness of critical controls. Partner with Assurance team to ensure clear second LOD assurance program.
• Preparing overview of health of Contractor Management including High RIsk Contractor Performance for Governance including Lines of Business through to Board reporting.
• Incorporating lessons learned and emerging best practices into contractor management approaches

You don’t need to check every box, however we’re looking for a good combination of:

• Tertiary qualifications in HSE, procurement or contract management
• At least 6 years’ experience in contractor safety management, supply chain safety, or HSE roles, with proven ability to develop and implement safety frameworks and programs & a deep understanding of the contractor lifecycle and obligations of all parties
• Strong understanding of contractor lifecycle management (prequalification to performance evaluation), safety assessment methodologies (audits, inspections, monitoring), and legal obligations (chain of responsibility, due diligence, principal liability).
• Experience managing contractor incidents, coordinating investigations, overseeing corrective actions, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and insurance requirements.
• Background in utilities, construction, or heavy industrial sectors; desirable experience in electricity/gas networks, contractor prequalification systems, and major project environments.
• Ability to influence contractors, procurement teams, and operational leaders; skilled in developing engagement programs (forums, training, recognition) and managing unionized or multi-tier contractor arrangements.
• Strong data interpretation and trend analysis skills; results-oriented, pragmatic problem solver with integrity, resilience, and a collaborative approach to driving measurable safety improvements

The AusNet experience is all about…

• Growing your impact: We’ll support you to build your career through real opportunities and strong connections.
• Building an energy future to be proud of: We’re a trusted leader, with deep expertise, driven to do what’s right for our communities and customers.
• Being part of a team that cares deeply about each other: We share in the good times and support in the tough times.

We’re committed to building an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We believe different perspectives are essential to our success, and we encourage all applicants to apply. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, we're happy to discuss how we can support you.

At AusNet, we bring the energy!  Ready to make your impact? Apply now!