Safety Manager

Full-time, salaried position reporting to the General Manager. Work schedule is 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday; must be available to respond to emergencies.

About the Role

Develop, implement, and oversee safety programs and protocols to mitigate risks associated with water district operations. Collaborate with various departments and stakeholders to maintain a safe working environment and comply with all relevant safety regulations and standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive safety policies, procedures, and programs tailored to the water utility industry.
• Identify potential hazards and risks associated with water utility operations and develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, standards, and best practices.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs to employees, contractors, and other stakeholders to raise awareness and promote a culture of safety.
• Conduct regular safety meetings, toolbox talks, and workshops to address specific safety concerns or issues.
• Stay up to date with the latest industry trends, technologies, and regulations related to safety and share relevant information with the team.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive Safety Manual for the District.
• Investigate incidents, accidents, near misses, and other safety-related events to determine root causes and develop corrective action plans.
• Prepare and maintain detailed reports on incidents, including analysis of contributing factors, recommendations for improvement, and lessons learned.
• Monitor the implementation of corrective actions and provide guidance to prevent future occurrences.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits of facilities, equipment, and work areas to identify potential safety hazards.
• Collaborate with relevant departments to ensure prompt and effective resolution of identified safety issues.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, findings, and actions taken to demonstrate compliance and progress over time.
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans to address potential incidents or disasters, such as water main breaks, floods, or contamination events.
• Coordinate emergency drills and exercises to test the effectiveness of response plans and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with external agencies and stakeholders to establish effective communication and coordination during emergencies.
• Maintain and submit required reports to state and federal government entities in compliance with regulations.
• Coordinate CDL requirements, including maintaining and updating Driver Qualification Files and overseeing CDL drug and alcohol testing.
• Keep the General Manager advised of any informalities, personnel issues, customer problems, or other organizational needs.
• Familiarize with Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) reporting on hazardous and toxic chemicals.
• Comply with all local traffic laws, regulations, and safe practices while operating any company vehicle.
• Obtain First Aid/CPR certification upon employment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in occupational safety, environmental science, or a related field preferred; relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Safety Professional - CSP) are a plus.
• Experience in occupational safety will substitute for the required post-secondary education on a year-for-year basis.
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in occupational safety, preferably in the water utility or a similar industry.
• In-depth knowledge of safety regulations, standards, and best practices related to water utility operations.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify potential hazards and develop effective mitigation strategies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to deliver safety training and reports effectively.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to promote a culture of safety.
• Proficiency in using safety management software, incident reporting systems, and other relevant tools.
• Working knowledge of computer applications including CMMS, GNSS, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Must apply confidentiality to all areas of sensitive employee and customer information.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• First Aid/CPR Instructor certification required, or able to be obtained within the first 6 months of hire.
• EMT and Medical Examiner certification is highly desirable.
• Must reside within one-hour response time of work location.

Work Environment

• Time is divided between office and field work.
• Must be able to work outside in all types of weather.
• Must be able to work a forty-hour week plus any extra time the position demands.
• Lifting up to 50 pounds may be required.
• Travel in and around the system will be required; occasional meetings with other utility officials are required.