Safety Officer

Colas Construction • Portland, OR

16h • Hybrid

About The Position

At COLAS, we believe every employee plays a vital role in our mission: to build legacies and strengthen communities. We value collaboration, adaptability, and a team-first mindset. We are seeking a Safety Officer in construction who plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of workers and the adherence to safety regulations on construction sites. Their primary responsibility is developing, implementing, and monitoring safety policies, procedures, and practices to prevent construction personnel accidents, injuries, and illnesses.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Safety & Health, Construction Engineering Management, or similar discipline
• 12-15 years of construction industry experience in safety function
• OSHA 30 Certified
• First Aid/CPR Trained
• Driver's License and excellent, safe driving record

Nice To Haves

• Professional certification (CSP, CHST or CIH) preferred

Responsibilities

• Safety Policy Development: The safety coordinator is responsible for creating and maintaining comprehensive safety policies and procedures tailored to the specific needs and risks of the construction site. This includes identifying potential hazards, outlining safety protocols, and establishing emergency response plans.
• Training and Education: They organize and conduct safety training programs for construction workers, supervisors, and management to ensure that everyone is aware of safety protocols, equipment usage, and emergency procedures. This includes training on properly handling tools and machinery, fall protection, electrical safety, and more.
• Site Inspections: The safety coordinator conducts Regular site inspections to identify hazards, unsafe practices, and potential risks. They assess the overall safety compliance of the construction site and take necessary actions to mitigate any identified issues.
• Incident Reporting and Investigation: In the unfortunate event of an accident, injury, or near miss, the safety coordinator leads the investigation to determine the cause, contributing factors, and ways to prevent future occurrences. They compile incident reports and recommend corrective actions.
• Safety Audits: Periodic safety audits are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of safety programs and procedures. The safety coordinator reviews documentation, observes work practices, and interviews personnel to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The safety coordinator ensures that appropriate personal protective equipment is provided to workers and that it is trained in its proper use. This includes items like hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing.
• Regulatory Compliance: Staying up-to-date with local, state, and federal safety regulations is a critical part of the safety coordinator's role. They ensure that the construction site operates within legal requirements and promptly address any changes in regulations.
• Communication: Effective communication is vital. The safety coordinator communicates safety policies, updates, and information to all levels of the construction team, fostering a culture of safety awareness and responsibility.
• Emergency Preparedness: A key responsibility is to develop emergency response plans for various scenarios such as fires, natural disasters, and medical emergencies. The safety coordinator ensures that everyone knows what to do in these situations.
• Documentation: Maintaining accurate records of safety training, inspections, incidents, and corrective actions is essential. These records serve as historical references and help demonstrate compliance if needed.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: 100% employer-paid employee coverage for robust medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options
• Retirement: 401(k) plan with employer match
• Paid Time Off: generously paid sick, vacation, personal, and holiday days off
• Professional Development: annual allowance for continued education and training
• Company vehicles for certain roles
• Travel allowances
• Flexible working hours

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior