Manager of Safety

Interstate Waste Services•North Arlington, NJ

32d•$100,000 - $135,000

About The Position

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio. IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers. Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business. Essential Job Summary: The Safety Manager is responsible for implementing and overseeing all health and safety programs at the company’s material recycling facilities throughout the region. This role ensures compliance with OSHA, EPA and local environmental and safety regulations while fostering a culture of safety among all employees. The Safety Manager works closely with operations and maintenance teams to minimize risk and promote a safe working environment in a high-volume, industrial recycling setting.

Requirements

Candidates should possess 3-5 years of experience, preferably in sanitation/ solid waste, transportation, or industrial operations.
Working knowledge of OSHA, DOT, and federal/state/ local Health & Safety and Transportation compliance regulations.
Good analytical and organizational skills with the ability to adapt to a fast-paced work environment.
Excellent ability to communicate, collaborate, and partner with Operations to ensure safe operations across our sites.
Must be able to respond to emergencies outside of regular business hours.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel between sites within the market.
Frequent travel to field operations and transfer stations
Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain site-specific safety policies, procedures, and training programs.
Serve as the subject matter expert across MRFs on safety regulations, company policies and best practices
Conduct regular observations and inspections to ensure that all safety practices, programs, record keeping, and other related activities are being followed and performed to company, customer, and regulatory standards.
Deliver safety training for new hires and ongoing refresher courses for all staff.
Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, EPA, and local regulations.
Maintain accurate records of training, incidents, inspections, and regulatory reports.
Assist Corporate Safety Training Manager with development and revisions to training materials and manuals as applicable to MRFs.
Develop and lead emergency response plans and drills (fire, chemical spill, evacuation).
Coordinate with local emergency services as needed.
Monitor facility operations to identify potential hazards in sorting, baling, and equipment use.
Ensure proper use of PPE and safe operation of heavy machinery (e.g., conveyors, forklifts, balers).
Collaborate with maintenance to ensure lockout/tagout (LOTO) and confined space procedures are followed.
Investigate accidents, near-misses, and safety violations.
Prepare detailed reports, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
Participate and lead Incident Review Team meetings as needed.
Assist in managed care of injuries.
Demonstrates a commitment to communicating, improving, and adhering to safety policies in all work environment areas.
Promote a culture of safety through positive reinforcement, coaching and leading by example.
Provide coaching and support to supervisors and frontline employees.
Participate in safety committees and cross-functional teams.