Safety Specialist - Hawkeye Pride Egg Farm

Job Title: Safety Specialist
Department: Safety Department
Location: Hawkeye Pride Egg Farms - Corwith, IA
Reports To: Safety Manager
Job Type: Full-time, Exempt
Travel: Occasional local travel as needed

Job Summary

The Safety Specialist will support the Versova Safety Department by coordinating and enforcing safety programs across the Hawkeye Pride facility. This role ensures employee and contractor safety during all farm operations and helps maintain compliance with state and federal regulations. The Safety Specialist will conduct safety inspections, lead training efforts, investigate incidents, and contribute to the continuous improvement of safety programs.

Essential Job Functions

• Ensure compliance with state and federal health and safety regulations across farm operations.
• Promote a safe working environment in alignment with Versova's Core Values and Guiding Principles.
• Conduct routine safety inspections and follow-up hazard assessments at facilities.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, corrective actions, training, and incident documentation.
• Develop and assist in implementing safety programs, policies, and procedures.
• Coordinate and conduct training sessions on health and safety standards for all employees.
• Investigate workplace accidents and incidents to identify root causes and recommend preventive actions.
• Analyze trends from accident data to proactively address recurring safety issues.
• Assist in regulatory inspections and ensure compliance with safety and environmental rules.
• Review and update lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) procedures and other safety protocols.
• Respond to safety-related incidents outside of normal business hours, as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Technical Skills:
• • Knowledge of OSHA regulations and safety standards.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and enforce safety protocols.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Soft Skills:
• • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact with all levels of management.
  • Problem-solving ability to address safety challenges and hazards.
  • Leadership skills to guide teams on safety matters and foster a safety-conscious culture.
  • Ability to handle stress in emergency or crisis situations calmly and effectively.
• Industry Knowledge:
• • Understanding of general industry safety practices and farm operations.
  • Familiarity with regulatory agencies (OSHA, state safety programs).
• Tools, Software, or Systems Proficiency:
• • Proficient in using safety management software, spreadsheets, and data entry systems.

Required Qualifications

• Education: 4-year college degree or related safety experience equivalent to a degree.
• Certifications: 30-Hour OSHA for General Industry Certificate.
• Experience:
• • At least 3 years of experience in safety or health-related roles, particularly in industrial or agricultural settings.
  • Demonstrated experience with regulatory compliance (OSHA, state programs).

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced Degrees: Advanced degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health, or a related field.
• Certifications: Additional certifications like First Aid/CPR, Safety Management, or other specialized safety training.
• Industry Experience: Experience in agricultural or farm operations preferred.
• Language Skills: Fluency in additional languages beyond Spanish and English is a plus.

Work Environment

• The role is primarily based at the Hawkeye Pride facility with occasional travel to other sites as needed.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.
• The position requires standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods.
• Physical activities may include lifting, climbing, and operating equipment as part of safety inspections.

About Us

Versova is one of the largest egg producers in the U.S., with over 60 years of industry experience. We operate farms across multiple states, including Iowa, Ohio, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. Versova employs over 2,000 people who are dedicated to producing high-quality eggs while ensuring exceptional flock care and environmental stewardship. Our team shares a strong set of Core Values: Recognition, Initiative, Safety & Security, Service, Community, Respect, Integrity, Ownership, and Excellence.

When you join Versova, you become part of a family that is committed to sustainable practices, ethical standards, and industry innovation.

Benefits

• Regular performance reviews
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• HSA with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
• 401K with company match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program

Posting Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law or regulation.

Disclosure

This job description is not exhaustive, as employees may perform additional related duties as needed. Employment is based on an 'at-will' basis. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, as applicable to the role and in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.