Hi all,
I’m looking for some work/work experience in Scotland. I live in Glasgow but would be willing to travel/relocate. I know the job market is extremely tuff and there are a lot of posts from others looking for work, but thought I would post on here and see if anything comes from it (you never know). I have a degree in Environmental Health and a doctorate. I have gained some work experience as an HSE intern in a repair and maintenance facility for the oil industry. This was a wonderful experience; I learned a lot and had the opportunity to travel. Therefore I know HSE is the direction I want to head in, however, finding a position is very difficult as I only have that one experience to draw on. I had an interview a few weeks ago but was told that although I came across well at the interview, there were other candidates with more relevant experience and qualifications. I don’t hold a nebosh and think this is a real hindrance; however it’s not something I can afford right now but will definitely pursue in the future. Instead, I try to attend free events/seminars etc to keep up to date and demonstrate my eagerness at interview. If anyone has any suggestions then please send me a pm. Thank you.

Just to add, I completed the EH degree and don't have a doctorate (or any further post-grad qualification) and I;ve not had an issue with progressing in my career.

I've found that retail companies really go for EH graduates (probably because they have so much trouble from EHOs during inspections / accident investigations / etc.). This may not be the "high risk" option you're after, but it's certainly a very fast-paced interested industry to be in. I'm almost certain if you’re flexible with location that you could find a role within a Head Office of a retailer.

This is what I did 3.5 years ago, and I'm just about to start a role with a major oil company undertaking a big roll out project for their UK forecourts (still retail only). In the interview it was clear that non H&S / EH managers (it was a panel interview) all knew who EHOs were and their impact etc. Whilst this is still not "high risk", once you're in the company it will always be possible to transfer to other business units, which is something I'll consider in the distant future.

In my opinion, the NEBOSH diploma wouldn't teach you a whole lot more (it may go into more detail about certain topics, but EH is fairly broad and covers the majority of H&S topics). Use what you already have and fully explain it (sell it as a H&S and / or Environmental Degree - I did and they even said they preferred it!). I’ve plugged any (invertible) knowledge gap with CPD and self research online and in books etc.

For me, any further studies will be once I know my final career direction, so either an MBA or other related MSc, maybe you could wait and see where you’re future roles take you before putting yourself under financial stain in the short term.

F

I presume that by food you mean that you are also targeting drinks. Lots of major players in and around Glasgow in both alcoholic and soft.

Suggest you should also look at healthcare. Lots of food safety issues in hospitals that could get you through the door.

Both food/drink and NHS also come with lots of construction projects.