Principal Advisor, HSE

An inclusive environment for all
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves. We also want everyone to feel that their voices matter, that all cultures are respected, and that perspectives, as diverse as they are, are not only welcome, but essential to our success. We treat each other fairly and with dignity, regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation or any other distinguishing aspect.

At Rio Tinto, we welcome and encourage applications from women, older workers, persons with disabilities and representatives from diverse backgrounds.

Everyone is different, and we believe that these differences are our strength. The diversity of skills, life experiences, and perspectives within our team enhances the way we work and our ability to succeed together.

The Principal Advisor, HSE, is responsible for strengthening HSE capability, operational readiness, risk management, and continuous improvement across Simfer as the business transitions from construction to operations.

The role leads HSE coaching and capability development initiatives, manages specialist resources, supports HSE governance and systems, and provides technical leadership in risk management, assurance, and contractor evaluation. Working closely with Operations, Contractors, HR, and Training teams, the role ensures people, processes, and systems are aligned to deliver safe and sustainable operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Capability & Coaching

• Lead HSE capability and workforce readiness initiatives.
• Oversee the implementation of the Simfer HSE Coaching Program.
• Support development and certification of internal coaches.
• Identify capability gaps and develop targeted improvement plans.
• Promote leadership development and learning across the organization.

2. HSE Governance & Systems

• Lead the development and continuous improvement of HSE procedures, standards, and tools.
• Ensure alignment with Rio Tinto requirements and operational needs.
• Support management of change and implementation of lessons learned.
• Drive simplification and effectiveness of HSE systems and processes.

3. Risk, Assurance, Contractor Evaluation

• Support critical risk management processes and operational readiness activities.
• Lead incident investigations, risk assessments, audits, contractor evaluation and assurance reviews.
• Monitor and improve the effectiveness of risk controls.

4. Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead and develop direct reports and specialist resources
• Manage external consultants and coaching providers.
• Build strong partnerships across Operations, HR, Training, Contractors, and HSE teams.
• Provide technical leadership and advice on critical risk management, workforce capability, operational readiness, and continuous improvement.

Key Skills & Experience

• Strong Knowledge of the Rio Tinto Tools, Systems, Standards
• Experience leading HSE coaching, capability development, incident investigation and organizational learning programs.
• Strong knowledge of, HSE Coaching, risk management, assurance and HSE management systems, Business Improvement
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage consultants and contractors.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, communication, and influencing skills.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing consultants.
• 10+ years' experience in mining, construction, heavy industry, or major projects.
• Relevant qualifications in HSE, Engineering, Risk Management, or related discipline.
• Professional certifications such as NEBOSH, Lead Auditor, Essential Factors, or Coaching Certification are desirable.
• Fluency in English is required; French language skills would be highly desirable, particularly in a multicultural and West African operating environment.

What we offer

Get recognition for your contributions, your ability to think, your hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped the world move forward.

• Work environment where safety is always the top priority
• Competitive base salary based on your skills and experience
• Annual cash incentives for eligible employees
• Career development opportunities and training assistance to achieve your aspirations • Access to family-friendly health programs, top-notch retirement and savings plans
• Wellness benefits
• Rio Tinto's generous employee stock ownership plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• One-on-one wellness support (personal and professional matters) for you and your family
• Comprehensive leave policy covering all important life moments (vacation/annual, paid parental leave, etc.)  
   

About the Simandou Project
The Simandou Iron Ore Project is located in the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. It is Africa’s largest infrastructure and mining project and represents one of the largest known reserves of high-grade iron ore in the world.

Rio Tinto holds rights to Simandou Blocks 3 and 4 through SimFer, a joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH). Construction of the mine, together with the associated rail and port infrastructure, is well underway with first production from the SimFer mine expected in 2025.

About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a global leader in the mining and materials companies. We are established in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminum, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and the prosperity of people, communities, and nations. We have been in business for 150 years, drawing on knowledge accumulated over generations and on different continents. Our mission – to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs – guides us in our quest for innovation and continuous improvement, with the goal of making products that are low in emissions and meet the right environmental, social and governance standards. But because we can't do it alone, we focus on creating partnerships that allow us to solve problems, create mutually beneficial situations and seize opportunities.