Program Safety Coordinator II

Volunteers of America is a non-profit human services organization committed to serving people in need, strengthening families, and building communities. VOALA provides a variety of social services to Los Angeles area communities such as Head Start programs, Upward Bound college prep programs, veterans’ services, homeless shelters, low-income housing programs as well as drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

About the role

The Program Safety Coordinator II is responsible for initiating, facilitating, and continuously improving safety practices and procedures for residential and non-residential facilities, including 24/7 operating shelters and Project Homekey Hotels. This role works closely with the VOALA Facilities and Accessibility Manager, VOALA Maintenance Director, and Program Managers to ensure emergency procedures and life safety codes pertaining to emergencies, disasters, fire, OSHA, licensing, and program requirements are monitored, updated, and practiced throughout the program year. The coordinator ensures staff is trained and programs adhere to safety and emergency preparedness regulations.

Responsibilities

• Plans, coordinates, and communicates safety initiatives for assigned programs, including:
  • Coordinates and communicates safety materials
  • Establishes safety training
  • Follows up and monitors safety reports, inspections, and procedures
  • Maintains safety materials, updates, and trains employees on safety practices and disaster preparedness
• Trains, monitors, and supports staff and facilities in emergency evacuation drills and communication within programs
• Participates in site inspections and ongoing monitoring of systems involving emergency preparedness principles and Environmental Health and Safety protocols
• Records observations and safety practices at multiple locations
• Handles inventory and works with other service managers on supply orders and checklists for emergency supplies
• Coordinates fire inspections, fire alarm testing, and maintenance, including monitoring fire extinguishers
• Conducts fire training as needed, including fire watch, fire safety, and fire equipment maintenance
• Conducts new site and site needs assessments pertaining to Fire, Life, Safety operations, and equipment
• Assists program operations by:
  • Participating in community meetings
  • Networking with emergency personnel such as Fire Dept./Police Dept.
  • Holding community or advisory meetings on emergency preparedness
• Promotes safety knowledge at regular events, including:
  • Attending and participating in staff meetings/trainings
  • Attending/supporting monthly events or functions at centers
  • Attending maintenance/facility/Safe Environment meetings or trainings to increase technical knowledge and skills
  • Participating in emergency preparedness community events and meetings
• Educates program staff on health, safety, ergonomic, and OSHA requirements, as well as good body mechanics, especially when heavy lifting or repetitive/strenuous activities are required
• Plans program safety initiatives and maintains safety materials
• Follows up and monitors safety reports, inspections, and procedures
• Coordinates fire safety inspections at VOALA facilities; participates in inspections and ensures corrective action is performed
• Provides safety input in organizational and community venues, including:
  • Community meetings
  • Networking with emergency personnel such as Fire Dept./Police Dept.
  • Holding community or advisory meetings on emergency preparedness
  • Staff meetings
• Researches and obtains community assessment data for projects and grants
• Performs other duties as required and may be subject to change

An essential function of this position requires incumbents to report to the office. As service providers to the underprivileged and vulnerable in our community, all employees are considered Mandated Reporters and must report any instance of physical or sexual abuse to proper authorities.

Requirements

• Must be able to pass a fingerprint clearance, background check, including criminal history, personal references, employment, and education verifications
• Proof at time of hire of a Tuberculosis (TB) clearance and health screening within 6 months prior to hire date
• Annual influenza vaccination (between Aug 1-Dec 1)
• Pertussis (whooping cough) and measles immunization
• Must hold a Class C California Driver’s License and proper insurance as required, with an acceptable driving record substantiated by a copy of DMV records
• Must have access to an automobile with adequate insurance coverage and a valid California driver’s license, or means to other accessible transportation
• Ability to perform under circumstances of possible emotional stress and conflicts dealing with difficult, uncooperative, and potentially aggressive clients

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree in Environmental Health or Safety-related field or experience as a firefighter
• OSHA General Industry – 10-hour license within 6 months of hire
• Any two additional OSHA certifications in a related field (minimum 10 hours) within 6 months of hire
• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) certification within 6 months of hire
• 3 years’ experience with emergency preparedness, fire-related field, or safety principles

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional OSHA or safety credentials
• Fire Prevention Certification
• Crisis Response Coordinator Credential
• Bachelor’s in Environmental Health or Safety-related field
• Non-Violence Credential or training
• At least one (1) year of experience with shelters, adult rehabilitation programs, low-income housing, or HUD
• Knowledge of emergency preparedness practices
• Knowledge of LAFD practices
• Visio software proficiency
• Development of disaster preparedness plans

Pay

$34.70 - $36.70 per hour

Benefits

VOALA offers competitive medical, dental, vision, and retirement benefits.