Pros
I started brand new to safety and HSE put me through initial training which was very in-depth. After learning Safety Watch I was able to train as an Industrial Safety Technician (breathing air operations) and eventually a High Angle Rescue Technician. The rescue course was amazing, and I left there feeling like I had the skills to do the work, as did my classmates.
Working as a Rescue Tech kept me very busy, even through the downturn. The job could be monotonous at times but we spent most of our field days practicing skills where we could and helping out. If you are looking for a job where you sit all day and do nothing, look somewhere else.
Working shutdowns I had a chance to meet many of the newer employees with HSE. Some were great. Most, like many of those that posted negative reviews here, were more concerned about making a buck and trying to do as little as possible. We were happy when they inevitability left.
I left HSE only because of an opportunity to run my own business. I would return in a heartbeat if my situation changed.
Cons
The hours can be long and you may have to travel to keep busy. Guess what, it’s part of the job and you were aware of the challenges when you signed up.