Construction Safety Director

We are looking for an experienced Safety Director to oversee safety operations across a variety of heavy civil construction activities, including earthwork, excavation, underground utilities, bridges/structures, and aggregate operations.

This is a hands-on position requiring regular jobsite visits and close interaction with project management, superintendents, foremen, and field crews. The Safety Director will play a key role in maintaining compliance while continuing to strengthen the company's overall safety culture.

Responsibilities

• Lead and improve safety programs across multiple heavy civil operations
• Conduct regular jobsite inspections, audits, and safety assessments
• Ensure compliance with OSHA and MSHA requirements, including trenching/excavation and confined space
• Investigate incidents, identify root causes, and drive corrective actions
• Oversee toolbox talks, safety meetings, new-hire orientation, and employee training
• Manage safety equipment requirements, including trench protection, shoring, gas detection, PPE, and related equipment
• Maintain safety documentation and requirements for DOT and public infrastructure projects
• Track EMR, incident rates, safety statistics, and other key safety metrics
• Coordinate with OSHA, MSHA, workers' compensation providers, and other regulatory agencies
• Work directly with field leadership to identify hazards and implement practical solutions
• Promote accountability and an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns
• Support ongoing risk management and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

• 5+ years of safety management experience in heavy civil construction
• Experience with earthwork, underground utilities, excavation, bridges/structures, or similar civil construction
• Strong knowledge of OSHA 1926 construction standards
• Trenching and excavation competent person experience
• MSHA Part 46 experience preferred
• Experience with DOT/public works safety requirements and documentation
• Proven ability to improve safety performance, including EMR and incident rates
• Strong communication, organization, and attention to detail
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing field conditions
• Comfortable working regularly on active construction sites
• Ability to work effectively with both field crews and senior leadership
• CHST, CSP, OSHA 500/501, or equivalent certifications preferred

Compensation & Benefits

• Company vehicle and gas card
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Paid time off
• Additional company benefits

Position Requirements

This is a field-focused safety leadership role and is best suited for someone who enjoys being involved in day-to-day construction operations rather than working exclusively from an office. Regular travel between active jobsites is expected.

If you are interested in this Safety Director role in the Madison area please apply! Or email clay.collison@gogpac.com with a copy of your resume for further consideration.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.