Safety Specialist Underground Utilities

= DMV Region (DC / Maryland / Virginia)
=R Full-Time

About the Opportunity

A growing underground utility contractor in the DMV region is seeking a Safety Specialist to support and enforce safety programs across active construction projects. This organization is known for its strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence across complex utility and heavy civil work.

This is a high-impact, field-focused role ideal for someone passionate about promoting a proactive safety culture and working closely with crews in dynamic jobsite environments.

Position Overview

The Safety Specialist partners with field teams and leadership to ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and other regulatory standards while driving continuous safety improvements. This role plays a key part in reducing risk, preventing incidents, and reinforcing safe work practices across all job sites.

Key Responsibilities

Field Safety Oversight

• Conduct jobsite safety inspections and audits across excavation, trenching, confined space, and heavy equipment operations
• Monitor field activities for compliance with OSHA standards and company policies
• Identify hazards and work with field leadership to implement corrective actions
• Reinforce safety expectations and best practices on active job sites

Training & Safety Programs

• Lead safety orientations for new hires
• Conduct toolbox talks, JHA/AHA meetings, and safety stand-downs
• Deliver training on key topics such as trench safety, fall protection, confined space, PPE, and equipment safety
• Maintain accurate training and compliance records

Incident Management

• Investigate workplace incidents, near misses, and property damage
• Document findings and develop corrective action plans
• Support post-incident reviews and reporting requirements
• Assist with workers' compensation documentation

Regulatory Compliance

• Support compliance with OSHA, DOT/FMCSA, and local safety regulations
• Assist with safety audits, inspections, and reporting
• Help maintain driver safety and compliance programs where applicable

Program Administration

• Maintain safety documentation including JHAs, inspection reports, and incident logs
• Assist in updating safety policies and procedures
• Monitor PPE, safety equipment, and jobsite safety supplies

Safety Culture Development

• Promote a proactive, safety-first mindset across all teams
• Coach supervisors and crews on safe work practices
• Recognize and reinforce positive safety behaviors

Qualifications

• 3 5 years of safety experience in construction or utility environments
• Strong knowledge of construction safety standards and OSHA regulations
• Experience with underground utilities or heavy civil construction strongly preferred
• Ability to communicate effectively with field teams and leadership

Preferred Background

• OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certification
• Competent Person Excavation & Trenching
• CPR / First Aid / AED Certification
• CSP or ASP certification (a plus)
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills (highly preferred)

Key Skills

• Strong hazard recognition and incident investigation abilities
• Effective communication and field presence
• Ability to influence and promote safe behaviors
• Strong documentation and reporting skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and safety systems

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Combination of field and office work with frequent jobsite travel
• Exposure to active construction environments, including excavation, heavy equipment, and traffic zones
• Ability to walk uneven terrain, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions

Schedule

• Full-time, Monday Friday
• Hours may vary based on project schedules and site needs

Why This Role?

• Join a growing contractor with a strong project pipeline in the DMV
• Play a key role in shaping and maintaining a safety-first culture
• High visibility with field leadership and operations teams
• Opportunity for long-term career growth in safety and operations

Equal Opportunity Employer

This organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.