Health & Safety (Ops) Senior Manager

Primary Role

The Manager Health & Safety will be overall responsible for driving and managing Health & Safety initiatives/programs for State Operations, including metrics, safety apps, contractor safety, training, PSM and audits (compliance reviews). This role will have direct reporting to the VP of Operations and matrix reporting to the Corporate Director of Health & Safety.

Key Accountabilities

• Responsible for Health & Safety strategy, systems and processes at the state level operations
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, and American Water safety standards for both employees and contactors
• Partner with Corporate Safety team in designing, developing and implementing Standard Safety Procedures
• Partner with Corporate Safety team in designing, developing and delivering health and safety related training
• Document and investigate accidents or injuries, provide records or evidence as required during grievances or legal proceedings
• Implement corrective measures meant to reduce future risk
• Closely partner with HR and LR team at the state level
• Assist with worker’s compensation, general liability and product liability
• Responsible for selection and oversight of insurance company or independent counsel with regard to litigated claims
• Prepare or oversee the preparation of litigation report updates and financial exposure with regard to litigated claims
• Ensure that claims and accidents are investigated in a timely manner and necessary reports are submitted to ensure compliance
• Responsible for the administration, management and approval of local insurance services including, but not limited to, certificates of insurance, bonds, builder’s risk and railroad protective insurance
• Responsible for Community Right to Know, OSHA Process Safety Management, EPA Risk Management Program, RCRA, NESHAPS, Underground Storage Tanks, HazWopr, Spill Prevention, Control Plans, Superfund, medical and solid waste disposal
• Responsible for preparing and submitting required annual reports per regulatory requirements.
• Responsible for compliance with Federal and State Department of Transportation regulations. This includes DOT driver license renewals, driver qualification, vehicle and trailer inventory, annual inspections, and driver substance abuse program, hazardous materials transpiration security and permits
• Administration of driver pull notice program

Knowledge/Skills

• Strong process, project, and program management skills.
• Proven ability to lead through influence and deliver results through others.
• Ability to be both visionary and strategic in thinking, as well as tactical in executing training strategies while anticipating and considering how the business may be impacted by training initiatives.
• Strong quantitative skills (e.g., analytical, technical, problem solving).
• Effective people management skills (e.g., planning, organizing, recruiting, controlling, and leading individual staff and teams).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills (e.g., fluency in report writing and presentations).
• Effective interpersonal skills (e.g., persuasion, negotiation, listening, cooperation, tact, diplomacy, problem solving, internal consulting).
• Leadership presence (e.g., ability to deal effectively and maintain collaborative relationships with Company senior management and other key stakeholders
• Knowledge of OSHA, Federal, State and Local regulations as applicable utilities, construction, and related industries.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with health and safety program management and OSHA regulatory requirements for construction and general industry with increased opportunities to apply expertise across disciplines or organizational areas.
• Knowledge of water utility industry strongly preferred
• Knowledge of environmental regulations
• Knowledge of Department of Transportation regulations

Experience/Education

• Bachelor's degree in safety management, safety engineering, industrial hygiene, occupational environment health and safety, or a related field. Equivalent role related work experience in lieu of a degree will be considered.
• Master’s Degree preferred.
• 12+ years of related experience
• Experience managing direct reports

Certifications/Licenses

• At least one relevant/related nationally recognized professional certification like Certified Safety Professional (CSP) preferred
• Valid Driver’s License

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, occasionally works in construction environments, near moving mechanical parts and in outside weather conditions and could include a work environment where possible exposure to physical hazards, weather extremes, wet and/or humid conditions and chemicals exist. The ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment is required. Occasionally works at elevated levels, in confined spaces and in a construction environment. Use of respiratory protection may be required in certain instances. There may also be instances of potential noise exposure.

Travel Requirements

30% to 40% within the State

Competencies