Safety Specialist

Summary: This Safety Specialist position is primarily field-based, involving frequent travel to multiple vegetation management project sites under the supervision of experienced safety professionals. The role supports the Safety Manager and focuses on ensuring compliance with safety protocols, conducting inspections, and facilitating training for vegetation management crews.

Candidates will occasionally be assigned to specific projects as needed. This position will require heavy travel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Conduct regular walk-through inspections of vegetation management work sites, rights-of-way, equipment yards, and workshop areas to ensure compliance with company, client, and regulatory safety standards, including ANSI Z133 and OSHA requirements. Observe crew work practices and inspect equipment, including aerial lifts, chippers, chainsaws, and vehicles, to verify safe operation and proper use of PPE.

Identify, document, and recommend resolutions for hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions, such as electrical hazards, hazard trees, traffic exposure, and unstable terrain; follow up to ensure corrective actions are implemented. Assist in the preparation of safety documentation, including inspection reports, accident-related forms, and corrective procedure recommendations.

Collaborate with the Safety Manager to plan inspections, manage safety supplies, and prepare for upcoming work. Assist in investigations of personal injury, vehicle incidents, and property damage, compiling data and reports as required by company procedures and regulatory standards. Participate in and support job briefings, and issue safe work permits for operations as needed.

Support federal, state, local, and client safety inspections and audits. Conduct onboarding and training for new hires, and deliver ongoing safety training to crew members, including aerial rescue, first aid/CPR, and equipment safety. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of all applicable health and safety regulations and industry standards.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Requirements

Ability to work in various weather conditions and stand or walk for extended periods, including on uneven terrain. Strong communication and leadership skills, with an ability to effectively manage workload, including planning, coordination, and prioritization. Demonstrated decision-making skills and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Proven ability to work effectively with a diverse workforce.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health, or a related field. Professional safety certification (ASP or GSP designation from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals) preferred. TCIA Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) or ISA Certified Arborist/Utility Specialist also preferred. At least two years of safety management-related experience, or five years of experience in professional, technical safety management, vegetation management, line clearance, and/or electric utility operations.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Candidates who accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam ensures that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role.

The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position.

Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.