What a good HSE candidate looks like in 2022

Stephen Coldicutt

Page Published Date:

February 10, 2022

What A Good HSE Candidate Looks Like In 2022


The COVID pandemic has created a ‘perfect storm’ for Australia’s HSE job market. We have seen record numbers of job ads being listed, yet there are far fewer people than usual looking for jobs.

Demand for heath and safety people has soared over the pandemic, but fears around job security has meant there are fewer people actively looking for a change in job. With border closures further shrinking the pool of workers available for hire, it’s now time to reevaluate what a good candidate looks like. 

If you are a client or manager looking to employ a health and safety professional in 2022, you may need to be more flexible than you may have been in the past. 

Finding HSE people in a tight job market


Remain flexible

Try to keep an open mind as to what a good HSE candidate looks like. In 2022 good candidates…

  • May have excellent skills... but their experience is from a different sector
  • Are a great fit or perfect for the job... but are based in another city
  • Will give 100% to the job... but can only work part time. 
  • Have a great deal of on-the-job experience, but not all the formal qualifications 
  • Are ready to step-up into their next role, so are an 80% fit
  • Need a role that will be functional as a hybrid role in the long term
  • Are perfect for your role but have a 3-month notice period
  • Has some of the skills needed – can some of the role be done as a project?


Sell the opportunity effectively


With stiff competition amongst employers, good quality HSE candidates have their pick of jobs in the current cliimate. In 2022 good candidates... 

  • Are ideal for the position, but want the opportunity sold to them directly from you
  • Are a great fit for you, but want to know what your Employee Value Proposition is
  • Care about the money... but also care about your Environmental and Social Governance policies

Act quickly & prepare for changing circumstances


One thing COVID has taught us, is not to rely on solely on pre-made plans. Acting quiclly and being able to pivot is essential when trying to attract HSE people. In 2022 good candidates... 

  • May plan to change jobs... but could be tempted by a strong counter-offer when they try to resign
  • Want to work with you... but may be snapped up by a competitor who acts quickly and has a firm offer on the table


How we can help


We hope this has given you some insight to what to expect a good HSE candidate to look like in 2022. 

If you need to know more, contact one of our team in an office near you. We look forward to working with you in the year ahead.


Looking for a new HSE role? Search HSE jobs 

Need help filling a position? Contact Us


Stephen Coldicutt • February 10, 2022

Other articles you might be interested in

A female factory  at a computer with white headphones
By The Safe Step January 26, 2026
Up to 20% of the Australian workforce is neurodivergent. Is your safety policy fit for purpose? Explore 3 steps to bridge the gap between neurodiversity and WHS.
Corporate and safety team meeting at construction site
By Stephen Coldicutt January 20, 2026
Stephen Coldicutt, Associate Director at The Safe Step NSW, discusses the shift to strategic generalists, the impact of new legislation, and why the "Return to Office" debate is heating up.
HR and safety worker in factory
By Aaron Neilson January 11, 2026
The Safe Step WHS and HR worker in hi vis speaking in factory
SHOW MORE