IRATA International is the global authority for industrial rope access, setting the benchmark for safety, competence, and governance worldwide. With over 830 member companies and 130,000 certified technicians, IRATA’s audit and certification systems underpin safe work at height operations across six continents. We are now seeking experienced, highly credible professionals to join our global audit team. This is a critical assurance role at the heart of IRATA’s governance and accredited quality framework, directly influencing the safety of technicians, the integrity of member companies, and the continued global confidence in the IRATA system.

IRATA Auditors operate at the forefront of industry best practice. This role is ideally suited to individuals who are respected within the industry, committed to excellence, and motivated by contributing to the long term credibility and evolution of IRATA rope access standards.

The Role

• Plan, lead, and deliver IRATA audits internationally.
• Apply recognised audit principles, risk-based approaches, and sampling techniques.
• Collect, verify, and document audit evidence.
• Identify non-conformities and manage the approval of corrective action in line with IRATA requirements.
• Produce clear, accurate, and timely audit reports.
• Maintain confidentiality, impartiality, and professional integrity.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Essential Requirements

• IRCA recognised (or equivalent) Lead Auditor qualification in ISO 45001 or ISO 9001.
• Current or previously held IRATA Level 3 qualification.
• Experience auditing health and safety and/or quality management systems.
• Experience leading audits from planning to completion.
• Operational rope access experience across multiple industries and sectors.
• Strong experience in the delivery of IRATA rope access training.
• Have an understanding of the scale, sector of operation, structure, business and management practices of typical IRATA member companies.

Skills & Attributes

• Fluent spoken and written English (essential).
• Additional languages (highly advantageous).
• Professional presence and sound judgement.
• Excellent IT, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong report writing capability.
• Willingness to travel internationally.
• Valid passport and no unspent criminal convictions.
• Ability to build and maintain excellent working relationships across all organisational levels.
• Be in good standing and committed to representing IRATA professionally in all interactions.

Application Process

IRATA operates a rigorous, merit-based selection process. Applications are welcomed globally, however, places are limited. Priority will be given to applicants resident in regions where IRATA currently has auditor coverage gaps. Applicants should state any affiliations they have with other rope access associations or conflicting activities.

How to Apply

Submit the following to [email protected]:

• Current CV
• Handwritten covering letter outlining suitability and motivation
• Lead Auditor certificate

Application Deadline:

Friday 27 February 2026 – 23:59 (GMT)

Selection Stages

• Online examination
• Interview
• UK based auditor training and examination (June 2026)
• Minimum three shadow audits

Training and shadow audit activities are undertaken at the applicant’s own expense.

Further information will be supplied to successful applicants.

Note: The selection of an IRATA Auditor is at the discretion of IRATA and no aspirant Auditor applicant has an entitlement to such role by default of possessing the required qualifications for the role. IRATA reserves the right to reject applications without explanation. An applicant could be unsuccessful at any stage of the recruitment process if they do not meet the required standard.

Join IRATA International as our Equipment and Standards Technical Officer

Location: Ashford, UK (Head Office)

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Do you possess deep technical knowledge of rope access equipment and standards? IRATA International, the world’s leading authority in industrial rope access, is looking for an Equipment and Standards Technical Officer to serve as the vital connection between our Equipment and Standards Committee and global operations.

This is a specialist technical role where you will:

• Serve as the primary liaison between the Equipment and Standards Committee (ESC) and IRATA Head Office, facilitating seamless information flow and coordination.
• Collaborate closely with the ESC Chair to orchestrate committee meetings, from agenda development and venue coordination to materials distribution, minute-taking, and action tracking.
• Communicate IRATA policies and decisions relating to equipment and standards across the global network.
• Deliver comprehensive reports on equipment developments, standards evolution, and emerging risks to inform strategic decision-making.
• Direct and manage ESC projects and working groups, ensuring timely completion aligned with organisational objectives.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive standards libraries and technical resources for member organisations.
• Build strategic relationships with associate members and industry partners to stay current with technological advances and market developments.
• Represent IRATA on relevant standards committees and industry forums, enhancing our professional standing and influence.

What we are looking for:

• Strong understanding of standards and equipment relating to industrial rope access.
• Proven ability to create and collate industry-related technical guidance and documentation.
• Experience providing training, coaching, mentoring, or consultancy regarding rope access equipment and standards.
• Exceptional organisational skills with demonstrated experience working with professional committees.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities.
• IRATA rope access qualification or equivalent expert industry knowledge.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• GCSE English and Maths Grade 5 or above (or international equivalent).

Personal attributes we seek:

• Strong command of English; additional languages advantageous.
• Confidence in presenting to diverse professional audiences.
• Self-motivated and disciplined approach with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to build and maintain excellent working relationships across all organisational levels.
• Commitment to representing IRATA professionally in all interactions.
• Flexibility regarding working hours and travel requirements.

Why choose IRATA?

This role offers the opportunity to influence equipment standards and safety protocols that protect workers worldwide. You’ll collaborate with industry experts, equipment manufacturers, and standards bodies, ensuring IRATA maintains its position at the forefront of technical innovation and safety excellence.

If you combine technical expertise with strong relationship-building skills and want to shape the future of rope access equipment standards, we encourage your application.

Apply today and help define tomorrow’s safety standards.

Click here to download the Equipment and Standards Job Description

How to apply

Please submit a comprehensive CV with a covering email to [email protected]. In the subject line of your submission state “Equipment and Standards Technical Officer”

The covering email should state:

• Your reasons for applying
• What you think you would bring to IRATA with specific reference to the role details
• Current notice provisions and salary expectations

Please note we review applications as we receive them and encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience. Due to the high number of applications, we can only respond to successful candidates. If you have not received a response within four weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.