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What is an hse manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read

Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) managers are responsible for developing safety management policies, coordinating training programs, and investigating workplace incidents. In essence, they develop organizational safety programs. Additionally, they review and update institutional HSE policies and carry out risk assessments to detect potential hazards.

This way, they can plan precautionary measures. They are also in charge of interacting with all departments to ensure that all existing special projects and processes comply with regulations across all levels.

An HSE manager maintains and implements programs such as hazard identification and control, fire/life safety, accident/injury prevention, emergency preparedness, hazardous material/waste management, ergonomics, environmental regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene. They also have direct supervision of consultants, contractors, and subcontractors. An HSE Manager needs a minimum of a bachelor's degree in occupational health, safety management, or environmental science to qualify for the job. With this, they may work in offices, mines, or factories.

ScoreHSE ManagerUS Average
Salary
6.7

Avg. Salary $85,844

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level
7.8

Growth rate 8%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity
3.6
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.56%

Asian 2.83%

Black or African American 3.69%

Hispanic or Latino 17.36%

Unknown 4.44%

White 71.13%

Gender

female 12.88%

male 87.12%

Age - 46
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 46
Stress level
7.8

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level
8.4

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance
2.8

Work life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

Hse manager career paths

Key steps to become an hse manager

  1. Explore hse manager education requirements

    Most common hse manager degrees

    Bachelor's

    56.8 %

    Associate

    20.3 %

    Master's

    12.1 %
  2. Start to develop specific hse manager skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Regulatory Agencies8.25%
    OSHA8.18%
    Environmental Regulations7.41%
    Safety Program6.56%
    Environmental Programs5.14%
  3. Complete relevant hse manager training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 2-4 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New hse managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an hse manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real hse manager resumes.
  4. Research hse manager duties and responsibilities

    • Maintain and manage SPCC requirements as required.
    • Manage ISO 14001 and OSHAS 18001 re certification.
    • Manage the development and implementation of PSM site wide.
    • Focuse on achieving the highest levels of HSE performance through behavior-base initiatives, auditing, mentoring and expeditiously implementing change.
  5. Prepare your hse manager resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your hse manager resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an hse manager resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose from 10+ customizable hse manager resume templates

    Build a professional hse manager resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your hse manager resume.
    HSE Manager Resume
    HSE Manager Resume
    HSE Manager Resume
    HSE Manager Resume
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    HSE Manager Resume
    HSE Manager Resume
    HSE Manager Resume
    HSE Manager Resume
  6. Apply for hse manager jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for an hse manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first hse manager job

Stephen Munthali

HSE Manager

I (Stephen Tingadane Munthali) take a moment to share a significant milestone in my career journey - from being an Emergency response team, to a direct sales agent for Mtn mobile money Zambia, brand ambassador Samsung, brand ambassador Lg, to stepping into the role of a Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Manager.

Self-Discovery: A few years ago, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery. I assessed my skills, identified my strengths, and realized the potential for growth beyond my current role.

Educational Pursuit: I invested in my education, earning a HSE diplomas and obtaining certifications such as OSH ,Currently doing NEBOSH & Fire fighting course certificate.This not only expanded my knowledge but also opened doors to new opportunities.

Gaining Experience: I took on entry-level positions in the HSE field, applying my existing skills and learning the ropes of safety and environmental management. Volunteering for safety initiatives played a crucial role in gaining hands-on experience in manufacturing industries. Joined Suscon solutions as a safety Advisor, along the way was elevated to the position of Assistant HSE Manager. The company merged with a DRC Congo ForumSuscon where I was elevated to the position of HSE Manager.

Networking: Networking became a key component of my journey. Attending conferences, joining industry groups, and connecting with seasoned professionals provided invaluable insights and guidance.

Continuous Learning: I have embraced a mindset of continuous learning, staying updated on industry trends, regulations, and incorporating new technologies into my skill set.

Specialization and Certification: Pursuing advanced degrees like an MBA in Safety is my goal and obtaining certifications such as IOSH MS, NEBOSH HSW & IGC, BSS ADOHSE, ESC's IDHSE, OTHM Level 6 in OSH, TSP not only enhanced will enhance my expertise but also boosted my credibility in the field.

Transitioning Roles: With a solid foundation and a network of support, I made the leap to an HSE Manager role. The transition wasn't easy, but the challenges fueled my passion for ensuring the safety and well-being of my colleagues and the environment.

🤝 Gratitude: I'm immensely grateful for the support of my mentorLarry Malambo who taught me a lot of things in practicing HSE, my colleagues, and friends who believed in my journey. This achievement wouldn't have been possible without their guidance.

What

Average hse manager salary

The average hse manager salary in the United States is $85,844 per year or $41 per hour. Hse manager salaries range between $60,000 and $121,000 per year.

Average hse manager salary
$85,844 Yearly
$41.27 hourly

What am I worth?

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How do hse managers rate their job?

-/5

5 stars

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1 star

Hse manager reviews

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A zippia user wrote a review on Apr 2023
Cons

It takes time to implement and see the safety culture grow.


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A zippia user wrote a review on May 2020
Cons

I've got limited official background in OSH and find it difficult to navigate the corporate environment to find answers at times. Knowing who to include in what meetings and information sharing sessions has been somewhat of a challenge as well.


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A zippia user wrote a review on May 2019
Pros

Helping people avoid accidents and correcting dangerous conditions.

Cons

Red tape and excuses.


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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