Westfalia Fruit, is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global
markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market
quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.
With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognized as the leading #avo experts
and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales
offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
Westfalia Fruit Estates, situated in Tzaneen, has a vacancy for a suitably qualified and experienced: Occupational Health and Safety Officer
Requirements
We are seeking a candidate who can support the Research and Development department, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards across our research and operational environments. This role offers the opportunity to play a pivotal part in ensuring safe and sustainable research and operational environments in a global agribusiness leader. You will work at the interface of research innovation and health & safety leadership, with exposure to both cutting-edge science and practical operations in agriculture.
Key Responsibilities:
- Implement, monitor, and continuously improve the Occupational Health & Safety Management System in line with the OHS Act, Regulations, ISO 45001, HACCP, and other applicable legislation.
- Conduct site inspections, audits, hazard identification and risk assessments (HIRA), and job observations.
- Investigate accidents, incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions; ensure root causes are identified, and corrective actions are implemented.
- Deliver inductions, toolbox talks, and ongoing training for employees, contractors, and new recruits.
- Oversee contractor safety compliance and maintain legal registers.
- Promote a strong safety culture and encourage employee engagement in hazard and near-miss reporting.
- Liaise with regulators, auditors, and other stakeholders and support internal and external audit readiness.
- Maintain accurate safety records, reports, and digital reporting systems (e.g., Teams/SharePoint).
Qualification:
- National Diploma in Health & Safety required
- SAMTRAC or NEBOSH certification added advantage
- Registered as a SAIOSH Member (advantageous)
Experience:
- Minimum 2–3 years’ relevant Health & Safety experience, preferably in agriculture, food processing, or research facilities.
- Certification in First Aid and Fire Fighting.
- Legally able to act as a Health & Safety appointee under the OHS Act.
- Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel between sites.
Behavioural Competencies:
- Strong communication, facilitation, and training delivery skills.
- Conflict resolution and negotiation ability.
- Sound knowledge of incident investigation, HIRA, contractor management, and HACCP.
- Computer literacy (MS Office, SharePoint, EHS reporting systems).
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Proactive, self-driven, and able to work effectively across a culturally diverse workforce.
Benefits
The Company offers a Total Guaranteed Remuneration Package which comprises provident fund, insured
benefits, medical aid and an option to structure an annual bonus.
Closing date for applications will be 02 September 2025.
NB: Should you not receive correspondence by 30 September 2025, please regard your application as being
unsuccessful.
