HSE manager jobs in Abu Dhabi are among the most impactful roles in aviation today, and Etihad’s Munawala division is offering a standout opportunity. As an HSE Manager for Munawala – Al Bateen, you’ll lead safety, health, and compliance operations across multiple UAE airports. This strategic role focuses on implementing robust Safety Management Systems (SMS), supporting audits, managing incident investigations, and mentoring HSE teams. Ideal for UAE Nationals with experience in airport ground handling, this position offers direct involvement in high-level safety planning, regulatory compliance, and operational risk mitigation—while contributing to Etihad’s vision of world-class service and safety excellence.
Table of Contents
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Job Overview
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About Munawala & Etihad
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Available Jobs
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Job Description
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Job Responsibilities
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Why This Role?
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Requirements
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How to Apply
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FAQs
Job Overview
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Job Title: HSE Manager (UAE National – Munawala)
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Company: Munawala Ground Services (Etihad Airport Services – Ground LLC)
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Location: Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Employment Type: Full-time
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Start Date: Hiring Now
If you’re exploring HSE manager jobs in Abu Dhabi that offer high-impact leadership in aviation safety, this opportunity with Munawala, a subsidiary of Etihad, is ideal. As HSE Manager, you’ll oversee the implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS), manage compliance, and lead incident investigations across multiple UAE airports. This role is critical to enhancing Etihad’s world-class safety standards and supporting operational excellence in ground services.
About Munawala & Etihad
Munawala Ground Services is a fully owned subsidiary of Etihad Airport Services – Ground LLC, responsible for delivering premium ground handling solutions across multiple UAE airports. Services include baggage handling, ramp services, aircraft loading, cargo, and more.
Backed by the globally respected Etihad Aviation Group, Munawala offers a performance-driven, safety-first work culture that aligns with global aviation benchmarks. With a focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and regulatory compliance, Munawala supports Etihad’s mission to be one of the world’s most reliable and safe airline service providers.
Available Jobs at Etihad & Subsidiaries
Explore more opportunities across Etihad’s growing aviation and airport operations ecosystem:
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Ground Operations Supervisor – Abu Dhabi
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Safety Auditor – Etihad Airways
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Ramp Services Agent – Al Ain Airport
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Cargo Compliance Officer – Dubai World Central
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Duty Manager – Passenger Services – Etihad Airport Services
Job Description
As HSE Manager, you will lead and implement a full spectrum of health, safety, and environmental practices across all Munawala-operated airports. This includes driving SMS culture, managing audit readiness, ensuring regulatory alignment, mentoring safety teams, and serving as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for airport compliance and risk mitigation.
You will serve as the bridge between corporate safety strategy and on-ground execution—developing plans, leading incident investigations, coordinating with authorities, and engaging third-party service providers to build a strong, proactive safety culture.
Job Responsibilities
Operational Safety Leadership
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Oversee occupational health and operational safety mandates at all assigned airports
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Drive the implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) and Quality Management Systems (QMS)
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Coordinate with airport teams and contractors to align with local and international standards
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Lead on-site reviews, safety walkthroughs, and emergency preparedness drills
Audit & Compliance
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Act as SME for internal, external, and regulatory audits
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Prepare audit documentation and ensure timely closure of findings
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Liaise with EHSQ teams in Abu Dhabi for standard updates and compliance guidance
Incident Management
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Investigate safety incidents, occupational injuries, and near misses
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Coordinate with staff, third-party vendors, and airlines during investigations
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Develop and track corrective and preventive action plans (CAPA)
Risk Management
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Conduct hazard identification and risk assessments for new processes and changes
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Perform comprehensive risk evaluations for operational activities and facilities
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Escalate high-priority risks to executive stakeholders
Training & Culture Building
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Lead a team of HSE officers/specialists across multiple locations
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Deliver coaching, training, and safety campaign rollouts
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Implement safety promotion initiatives (e.g. posters, flyers, safety bulletins)
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Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and reporting
Why This Role?
Among all HSE manager jobs in Abu Dhabi, this opportunity with Munawala stands out for its regional influence, leadership scope, and long-term growth potential. Here’s why:
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National Impact – Shape safety and compliance across multiple UAE airports
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Etihad Backing – Join a globally respected aviation brand
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Career Growth – Lead and mentor cross-functional teams with regional visibility
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Competitive Package – Salary, medical benefits, and exposure to aviation operations
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Purposeful Work – Improve the well-being of staff, passengers, and ground partners
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must meet the following qualifications:
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Education:
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Degree in science, aviation, or safety (preferred)
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NEBOSH IGC or relevant Safety Diploma desirable
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Experience:
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6–8 years in ground operations or airport services
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Minimum 5 years in safety management or HSE roles
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Experience in incident investigation and corrective action planning
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Skills & Technical Knowledge:
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Familiarity with airline weight & balance procedures (desirable)
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Strong command of hazard identification and risk assessment principles
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Working knowledge of Dangerous Goods Regulations
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Excellent reporting and data analysis skills (SMS/QMS systems)
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Other Requirements:
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UAE National required
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Strong communication and leadership skills
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Comfortable leading teams across multiple locations
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How to Apply
Take charge of aviation safety excellence by applying today.
📅 Deadline: Applications are open for immediate consideration.
FAQs
1. Is this role open to expatriates?
No, this position is exclusive to UAE Nationals as part of the national workforce development initiative.
2. Will this role include travel?
Yes, you will oversee multiple UAE airports and may need to travel between sites.
3. What certifications strengthen my application?
NEBOSH, IOSH, and a Safety Diploma are highly desirable.
4. Does this role require line management experience?
Yes, managing and mentoring a team of safety officers is a core responsibility.
5. Can I apply if I’m based outside Abu Dhabi?
Yes, but you must be willing to relocate or travel frequently within the UAE.