Despite recent fluctuations in the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) job market, demand for HSE professionals continues to outpace pre-pandemic levels, according to a recent salary survey.

While the HSE job market is not immune to broader economic pressures, its continued resilience reflects the continued importance of workplace safety and wellbeing across various industries, as well as the increasing complexity of regulatory compliance and risk management in the HSE field.

“The HSE profession shows remarkable resilience amid broader market challenges,” said Katie Johnson, director at The Safe Step, which released its most recent HSE Job Opportunities Index.

“With demand outpacing supply, employers are competing fiercely for a limited talent pool. To attract and retain top HSE professionals, organisations must offer compelling packages, balancing competitive compensation with workplace flexibility.”

In a tight job market, competitive salaries and clear development paths are becoming increasingly important, Johnson said.

“Some salaries in the HSE sector have risen, particularly for in-demand roles. Employers should review their remuneration packages to ensure they align with current market expectations,” she said.

The survey found that HSE job opportunities have risen 1.6 per cent in the last period, rebounding after four consecutive quarterly declines. And despite a softening from the record-highs seen in early 2023, demand for HSE professionals remains 83 per cent higher than pre-pandemic levels.

The healthcare and medical sector continues to advertise the most job opportunities for HSE professionals, while HSE opportunities are also strong in the public sector and mining sectors.

The utilities sector, while representing a small portion of national opportunities, has shown remarkable growth with HSE demand increasing by 93 per cent over two years.

In terms of location opportunities, Queensland now accounts for 26.9 per cent of national HSE vacancies (second only to New South Wales) while contract roles currently make up 26 per cent of all advertised HSE job opportunities.

The survey also found that the landscape of risk management in HSE is evolving, with ongoing challenges managing psychosocial risks and emerging technologies playing an increasingly crucial role.

“The psychosocial landscape is increasingly complex, reflecting the changing regulatory environment and heightened focus on mental health. There’s an opportunity here for HSE professionals to move beyond traditional risk management and step into cultural transformation,” said Johnson.

“We’re seeing emerging roles like psychosocial risk managers, highlighting the need for HSE professionals to broaden their skills and work hand-in-glove with other business functions.”

Johnson also said employers are seeking HSE professionals who can educate colleagues about less visible safety issues, work across departments, and address emerging challenges like work-life balance, sexual harassment, and the impact of domestic violence in the workplace.

Johnson also noted that the push for increased presence in the office is creating workplace tensions, presenting challenges for both employers and HSE professionals.

While some organisations are pushing for more office-based work, she said this approach is not resonating well with job seekers. In a talent-short job market, Johnson said employers should consider maintaining flexible work arrangements or other benefits to attract top talent.

“It’s a delicate balance,” Johnson said. “Many organisations are pushing for more in-office time to foster collaboration, culture and mentoring. However, most people have grown accustomed to flexible work benefits. Employers need to find a middle ground that meets business needs while respecting employee preferences.”

The survey found that Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations are increasingly shaping corporate strategy, presenting new opportunities for safety professionals to demonstrate value across the business and at board level.

“There is also growing demand for HSE experts who can navigate the complexities of renewable energy projects and grid modernisation,” said Johnson – a point which was underscored by Jai Catrios, principal consultant at The Safe Step, who noted: “The crossover between ESG and HSE, combined with Australia’s green energy transition, is creating strong career options for safety professionals.”

The survey also found that contract roles now make up 26 per cent of all advertised HSE job opportunities, reflecting a shift towards more flexible staffing strategies. “The increasing complexity of health and safety regulations is driving demand for specialists who can navigate this landscape. Contract roles offer a way for organisations to access this expertise as needed,” said Johnson.