Area EHS Manager

Location: Houston or Dallas, TX

About the role

The Area Safety & Health Manager is responsible for leading the implementation, execution, and continuous improvement of Forgen’s Safety & Health Program across a defined geographic area. This role provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure effective utilization of safety resources across multiple projects while driving a culture of safety excellence. The manager partners with project teams and leadership to proactively identify risks, implement best practices, and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and company standards. The position also develops safety talent, mentors field teams, and reinforces Forgen’s Incident & Injury Free (IIF) commitment.

Company overview

Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating across North America. The company is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for complex civil, geotechnical, and environmental challenges, guided by its core values: We Do What We Say, We Are Passionate About Our Work, We Are One Team, We Work Smart, and We Do The Right Thing.

Key responsibilities

• Champion and model Forgen’s Core Values and Incident & Injury Free (IIF) commitment.
• Lead, manage, and hold accountable (LMA) direct reports and regional safety teams.
• Mentor, coach, and develop Safety & Health Managers, Specialists, Coordinators, and project leadership, demonstrating strong leadership presence and the ability to influence at all levels.
• Foster a proactive safety culture focused on prevention, ownership, and continuous improvement.
• Lead implementation and consistent execution of Forgen’s Safety & Health Program across all assigned projects.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local safety regulations and alignment with industry best practices.
• Evaluate field operations and emergency response procedures to identify risks and drive improvements in safety performance.
• Develop, enhance, and standardize safety policies and procedures across the organization.
• Partner with project teams from preconstruction through completion to ensure safety integration throughout the project lifecycle.
• Attend project kickoffs and provide ongoing safety leadership and support to project teams.
• Conduct and coordinate project audits, inspections, and performance evaluations with strong attention to detail and organizational effectiveness.
• Assist in the development of project‑specific Health & Safety Plans and risk mitigation strategies.
• Identify training needs and program gaps; develop and deliver effective safety training to field crews and supervision.
• Provide hands‑on coaching and support to field personnel, ensuring understanding and application of safety requirements.
• Lead or support incident investigations, perform root cause analysis, and develop corrective action plans using sound judgment and problem‑solving skills.
• Prepare and present incident reports, trends, and monthly performance metrics with clear and effective written and verbal communication.
• Drive continuous improvement through data analysis, lessons learned, and implementation of best practices.
• Partner with Business Development and Proposal teams to provide safety narratives, statistics, budgets, and project‑specific safety plans.
• Support client relationships by demonstrating safety performance, responsiveness, and professionalism.
• Provide coverage for Corporate Safety & Health Director or project‑level safety roles as needed.
• Maintain flexibility to travel, respond to emergent issues, and manage competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Review and interpret Industrial Hygiene assessments and provide guidance as required.
• Utilize strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, to manage reporting, communication, and documentation.

Basic qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in construction safety, industrial hygiene, or occupational safety.
• Bachelor’s degree in Safety, Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Professional certification preferred: CSP, CIH, or CHST (in good standing).
• Valid Driver’s License with ability to travel to project sites.
• Highly motivated with a strong work ethic and demonstrated commitment to excellence, ethics, and integrity.
• Passion for safety and a commitment to ensuring a zero‑incident work environment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and advise project leadership on complex safety matters.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word).

Preferred qualifications

• 40‑Hour HAZWOPER Training
• Competent Person Safety Training
• 8‑Hour Supervisory Training
• OSHA 500 Certification
• First Aid and CPR
• MSHA related courses

Physical demands & work environment

This role requires lifting up to 50 pounds, extended standing or walking on project sites, climbing in and out of equipment, and working in confined spaces or at heights. Work conditions may include exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust, fumes, noise, and extreme weather. Proper personal protective equipment—including protective eyewear, gloves, a hard hat, and steel‑toed boots—is required. Effective communication, tool use, and adherence to safety protocols are essential.

Perks and benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Performance bonuses
• Paid time off
• Flexible work model for most non‑craft positions
• Education assistance
• Wellness programs
• Employee awards