Expert Health, Safety, Environment and Social Expert

The Health, Safety, Environment, and Social (HSES) Expert will be responsible for ensuring that all project activities comply with national and international standards as well as organizational policies. This role involves identifying and mitigating risks, developing comprehensive management plans, and delivering training and guidance to project teams and stakeholders. The primary objective is to maintain a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible work environment throughout the entire project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Policy Development:
Develop and implement the project’s Health, Safety, Environmental, and Social Management Plan (HSESMP), Emergency Response Plan, and Risk Management Plan. Conduct detailed risk assessments and recommend effective mitigation strategies. Ensure full compliance with local laws and international HSE standards. Create project protocols aligned with World Bank Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) guidelines, with particular attention to construction and cultural heritage sites. Integrate social management components such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), and Sexual Harassment (SH) into the HSESMP and HSE plans to foster safe working conditions, especially for women workers.

Monitoring, Inspection & Reporting:
Carry out daily and weekly site inspections to document safety observations and monitor adherence to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe work procedures. Maintain comprehensive incident and accident logs, lead investigations into HSE and social incidents, and propose corrective actions. Manage environmental documentation such as monitoring reports, permits, and compliance certificates. Prepare and submit regular Health, Safety, Environment, and Social (HSES) reports to management. Monitor and control construction impacts on cultural heritage assets, including vibration and dust mitigation.

Training & Awareness:
Conduct safety training sessions, toolbox talks, and awareness programs for staff, contractors, and visitors. Promote a strong safety culture across the project site to encourage proactive risk management.

Coordination & Communication:
Work closely with contractors, consultants, and stakeholders to ensure compliance with HSE and environmental requirements. Lead emergency preparedness activities, including drills and mock exercises.

Documentation:
Maintain thorough HSE documentation, including policies, risk registers, audit reports, checklists, and training records, ensuring that all records are current and easily accessible.

Required Qualifications

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Engineering, or Occupational Health and Safety. A minimum of six years of relevant experience is required, including at least three years on internationally financed civil works projects (such as those funded by the World Bank, ADB, or AFD) or heritage conservation projects. Certification in Occupational Health and Safety, such as NEBOSH, IOSH, or an equivalent credential, is mandatory. Proven expertise in HSE reporting and documentation for projects involving tourist sites, public spaces, heritage sites, work at height, confined spaces, and hazardous material handling is essential.

Skills and Abilities:
Strong knowledge of health and safety regulations and best practices is required, along with excellent communication and training skills. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, high attention to detail, and a commitment to accuracy. The ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams is important. Proficiency in safety management software and tools is expected. Fluency in Urdu, local languages, and English is necessary for site-level training and formal reporting.

Additional Information

This position is based in Lahore, Pakistan. Shortlisted candidates will be selected based on qualifications and experience through a test and interview process. The salary and benefits package will be competitive to attract highly qualified professionals.

About the Agency

The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) is committed to revitalizing historic urban environments through physical, social, cultural, and economic initiatives. Its programs include the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, Historic Cities Programme, Music Initiative, and collaborations with leading academic institutions. AKTC operates across South Asia and globally, contributing to sustainable cultural development.

Sector: Culture
Region: South Asia
Location: Pakistan
Application Deadline: 20-Nov-2025