QHSE Manager - Pilot Plant Delfzijl

Delfzijl, fulltime

Avantium is an innovation-driven pioneer in the emerging industry of renewable and sustainable chemistry. The company offers unique technological solutions to reduce plastic waste, new chemical processes for the bio-based economy and R&D equipment and services to accelerate the development of new catalytic processes. The company headquarter is in Amsterdam, employing approximately 240 people representing 20 nationalities, with extensive R&D laboratories and pilot plants in Geleen and Delfzijl, the Netherlands. 

Most of the materials and chemicals used in modern daily life – such as plastics, packaging, furniture and clothing – are based on fossil resources like oil, gas and coal. Changing this paradigm is an ambitious goal but also a promise for a better future. This is why we at Avantium Renewable Chemistries work on developing practical solutions to accelerate the transition to a fossil-free world. We do this by focusing on innovative plant-based chemicals and materials as well as aiming to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) to a valuable resource for sustainable products.

QHSE

The QHSE department supports all chemical R&D and production activities regarding the risk identification and evaluation in the field of quality, process and occupational safety, health and environment aspects.

This department plays an important role in supporting management in creating awareness through behavioral programs, transferring standards to the work floor and learning from incidents, auditing and inspections.

Responsibilities

The QHSE Manager reports to the Pilot Plant Manager for the daily activities regarding the pilot plant and supports the QHSE director in matters regarding quality, health, safety and environment.

The QHSE manager delivers proactive support in determining potential hazards and developing work methods which embrace not only the operational targets but also corresponds with HSE regulations. The QHSE manager will communicate with all involved people, thereby improving knowledge and awareness regarding QHSE topics. In Avantium Safety comes First.

You will:

• Lead and participate in all studies regarding risk inventory and evaluation such as HAZOP/PHA and RI&E
• Lead in the investigation of incidents and support the drive for their follow-up
• Be part of the pilot plant Safety Coordination Team leading on the development of safety topics
• Maintain contacts with relevant stakeholders such as local government bodies and Chemical Park Delfzijl
• Organize, provide and give QHSE oriented trainings to pilot plant staff
• Lead in HSE communications regarding hazardous work and/or work spots
• Plan and perform daily observations and audits within the pilot plant organization and communicate with all involved
• Support the business unit with respect to environmental issues
• Act as QHSE liaison between head office and pilot plant

What do you bring?

Safety guidance and regulations for a chemical company are crucial for its operations and requires a thorough understanding of hazards, risks and measures needed to control and reduce the risks protecting both people and environment.

To be successful in this role a proper knowledge of chemical operations is required. Interpersonal and presentation skills are important in order to communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.

This includes:

• Bachelor / Master degree in chemistry or related science
• A diploma for an education in Safety Management (Dutch: HVK or equal), preferably certified
• Preferably 5 or more years of working experience in a chemical/pharmaceutical environment
• Daring to flag and discuss issues deriving from the QHSE field
• Being able to provide adequate training to pilot plant staff
• The ability to work independently and to communicate with all involved stakeholders
• Good written & oral communication skills in English and Dutch

What do we offer?

As we are a small company, we offer you a unique chance to learn a lot about many fields, not only science, but also business and management, leading people and operations, market strategies, quality and last but not least safety. Learning paths can be steep and we do not offer you predefined career paths and development tracks. You are in the lead of your career, what you bring to the table will be noticed and taking initiative is rewarded and recognized. We have an informal culture, a flat organization and we recognize and celebrate the many cultures that we represent. And on top of that we offer good primary and secondary benefits.

Interested?

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