Operations Safety & Training Specialist

The Operations Safety & Training Specialist develops and implements occupational health and safety programs meant to ensure the well-being of employees, contractors, vendors, and onsite visitors. Ensures compliance with applicable regulations and standards, including OSHA, EPA, USDA, and all local regulators. Documents and investigates accidents or injuries, provides records or evidence as required for legal proceedings, and implements corrective measures meant to reduce future risk. Develops, delivers, and tracks participation in health and safety related training. Plans and implements programs to educate and train employees on workplace safety practices, fire prevention, and correct handling techniques. Regularly inspects facility to detect existing or potential accident and health hazards, determines corrective or preventative measures where indicated, and follows up to ensure measures have been implemented. Employs proactive approach to managing workplace safety and accident prevention by utilizing Job Hazard Analysis, accident analysis, inspections and safety education and training. Ownership and oversight of the following initiatives and programs to ensure compliance and increase awareness: Safety Committee, Powered Industrial Truck Program & Training, Incident Investigations, Facility Security (both physical and biohazard security), Emergency (Fire & Ammonia) and Severe Weather Response Programs, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program. This role will also facilitate and be responsible for all training programs, inclusive but not limited to safety training.

Job functions / Responsibilities

• Responsible for preparing and submitting reports including, but not limited to required accident reports, OSHA logs, Sustainability reporting, EPA and BLS.
• Oversee the administration of workers' compensation program, including working with the insurance carrier to reduce employee lost time and work with health care provider to ensure balanced care.
• Audit physical security systems, make recommendations to leadership team to facilitate authorized access to the facilities, but restrict/prevent unauthorized access.
• Responsible for maintaining and updating all safety records, SOP’s and written programs.
• Demonstrate a Continuous Improvement mindset – through participation in events and activities that lead to financial gain, time savings, and/or waste reduction for the business.
• Assist in identifying training needs for manufacturing workforce through job task analysis, designing, developing, implementing, and evaluating training programs, inclusive of safety, food safety, quality, operational and general administrative training topics.
• Create, update, and train standard operating procedures to maximize operational effectiveness.
• Lead communication efforts within the manufacturing area to improve alignment and increase engagement.
• LMS Management and administration. Identify training needs/individuals
• Manages the training schedule, participants, and ensures timely execution of training.
• Owns the coordination of training-related decisions, updates, and planning
• Creates reports that will facilitate communication and decision making on training efforts
• Solicits feedback from training participants to ensure effectiveness and relevance of training materials.
• Builds, maintains, and communicates training calendar for stakeholders

Education/Experience:

• 
  Bachelor's degree from four-year College or University required. Degree in Occupational Safety preferred.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and adhere to all health & safety requirements.
• Three to five years safety experience and/or training in an industrial/distribution environment.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations, hazard identification and corrections, environmental regulations, workers compensation and human behavior and physical attributes related to job capabilities.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Alchemy, HRIS systems and other safety related electronic platforms required for reporting and tracking.
• OSHA General Industry Certification: CPR and First Aid Certifications required.
• Food manufacturing background a plus.
• Prior experience in development of training material is preferred.
• Self-motivated, innovative, and able to assume responsibility and work autonomously in a professional manner.
• Ability to participate and work collaboratively in a team environment.
• High tolerance for changing priorities and a genuine sense of urgency.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated success in providing presentations to large groups.
• Strong organizational skills including the ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Knowledge (intermediate or advanced) of MS Office, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.