Director of Safety

Job Summary:

The Director of Safety provides strategic leadership and oversight of all safety programs across a multi-state utilities construction firm. This role ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of safety excellence. The Director of Safety will develop and execute company-wide safety initiatives, oversee field safety supervisors, oversee safety training specialist and at times lead training programs. The Director will drive continuous improvement through proactive risk management and incident investigations.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Safety Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, company-wide safety strategy that aligns with business goals and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as the primary safety liaison to executive leadership, regulatory agencies, and industry partners.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging regulations to ensure the company remains at the forefront of the best safety practices.
• Drive a proactive safety culture, embedding safety into every aspect of operations.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure company compliance with OSHA, DOT, NESC, and other relevant federal, state, and local safety regulations.
• Lead internal safety audits and coordinate external regulatory inspections and compliance reviews.
• Develop and oversee risk assessment and mitigation strategies to minimize workplace hazards and liabilities.
• Oversee the Manager of Safety Investigations & Compliance & Claims and provide input into incidents and support that involve workers’ compensation.

Safety Program Development & Implementation

• Oversee the design and execution of safety training programs, including leadership safety development, employee certifications, and field-specific training.
• Oversee the Field Safety & Training Manager to ensure site-level adherence to safety policies and best practices.
• Establish and refine safety performance metrics, leveraging data analytics to drive continuous improvement.
• Champion the use of technology and innovative safety solutions to enhance risk management and reporting.

Incident Response & Investigation

• Oversee all accident and incident investigations, ensuring thorough root cause analyses and corrective action implementation.
• Establish and maintain an incident reporting system that promotes transparency and accountability.
• Lead post-incident reviews with executive leadership to drive safety enhancements and policy adjustments.

Leadership & Culture Development

• Mentor and develop a high-performing safety team, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Partner with operations and project leadership to integrate safety into project planning and execution.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and regulatory bodies to promote a shared commitment to safety.

Qualifications & Experience:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• 10 years of progressive safety leadership experience in utilities construction, power delivery, or fiber installation.
• Deep knowledge of OSHA, DOT, NESC, and industry-specific safety regulations.
• Experience leading multi-state safety programs, managing compliance, and directing field safety teams.
• Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively to job sites across multiple states.

Preferred Skills & Competencies:

• Expertise in Electric Utility Infrastructure construction safety.
• Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP), or equivalent certification preferred.
• Strong analytical skills for tracking safety trends and driving data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to influence and drive cultural change at all organizational levels.

Special Position Requirements

This is a position and all applicable policies including drug testing and background checks will apply.

River City Construction provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, River City complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.