Safety Manager

Benchmark Utility Services•Richmond, VA

About The Position

Benchmark Utility Services is a design-build, site and underground utility construction firm with a focus on mission-critical facilities. The Safety Manager develops and oversees company safety protocols and ensures staff are informed about emergency preparedness, protective equipment, and accident procedures. The role serves as the primary safety resource for a job site and provides safety leadership to field crews, including during high-risk utility construction work. The position requires construction-industry safety management experience, preferably in excavation and trenching.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Five or more years of safety management experience in underground utility construction or a similar industry.
OSHA 500/510 certification.
Proficiency in data analysis and reporting statistics.
Knowledge of utility coordination practices and excavation safety, including 811 One Call processes.
Experience with trench safety, confined-space entry, and energized systems.
Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
Excellent supervisory and leadership skills.
Proficiency with safety reporting software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in occupational safety, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
Excellent knowledge of OSHA standards and federal safety legislation.
CSP, CHST, or other professional certifications.
Solid understanding of potentially hazardous materials and workplace practices.
Familiarity with writing health and safety policies and procedures.
Working knowledge of safety management software.

Responsibilities

Manage the Site-Specific Safety and Health Policy and Procedures (SSP).
Serve as the primary safety resource and authority for a particular job site.
Conduct regular job-site audits and inspections to ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, NESC, and company safety policies.
Manage and maintain documentation related to safety training, incident reporting, corrective actions, and regulatory compliance.
Provide safety leadership and support to field crews and the Assistant Safety Manager during high-risk tasks, including excavation near live utilities, working around traffic, and operating heavy equipment.
Conduct and document Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), Pre-Task Plans, and safety briefings.
Lead incident investigations and root-cause analysis, and track implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
Assist the Senior Safety Manager in coordinating with utility owners, project managers, and subcontractors to plan safe work practices.
Ensure proper use and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE), shoring systems, traffic control devices, and utility locating practices.
Monitor compliance with DOT regulations for drivers and vehicles used in utility operations.
Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations and update company policies as needed.
Present safety information and documentation to General Contractors (GCs).
Perform other duties as assigned.