Safety Officer

City of Houston•Houston, TX

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Safety Officer supports implementation, coordination, and continual improvement of the City’s Health & Safety Management System in alignment with City policies and applicable regulatory requirements. The role performs multidisciplinary, interdepartmental safety work across three or more technical areas, which may include OSHA standards, DOT regulations, hazardous materials, hazard communication, and fire protection. The position helps maintain a comprehensive safety program to reduce risk, prevent incidents, and promote safe, compliant operations across City departments. The position is based at the Kingwood Central Wastewater Treatment Plant and works Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., subject to change. Work may involve lifting items weighing up to 40 pounds, extended walking on rough surfaces, climbing, and certain body contortions. Routine exposure may include moderate heat, cold, moisture or wetness, unpleasant air conditions, soiled materials, and light chemical substances such as cleaning solutions. A bachelor's degree in Technology, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field is required. Three years of experience in Safety Administration or a closely related field are required. Pertinent professional experience may substitute for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis. A valid Texas driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's driving policy are required. The department may administer a skills assessment. This is designated as a safety-impact position and is subject to random drug testing; candidates promoted into the position must pass an assigned drug test. New hires and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Technology, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field; pertinent professional experience may substitute year-for-year for the education requirement.
Three years of experience in Safety Administration or a closely related field.
Valid Texas driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving.

Nice To Haves

Completion of advanced training resulting in certification as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).
Experience in Occupational Safety and Health or a related field.
Safety Management System (SMS) experience.
Comprehensive knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office.
Strong communication skills.
Completion of advanced training resulting in certification as an Associate Safety Professional (ASP), Graduate Safety Professional (GSP), Transitional Safety Professional (TSP), Occupational Hygiene and Safety Technician (OHST), Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST), Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO), Safety, Health, & Environment Professional (SHEP), or Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS).
Eligible veteran applicants may receive preference if they possess the necessary qualifications, are among the most qualified candidates, and meet the other factors under Executive Order 1-6.

Responsibilities

Support implementation, coordination, and continual improvement of the City’s Health & Safety Management System in alignment with City policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
Conduct routine and complex incident investigations to identify root and contributing causes and recommend hazard mitigation, task modification, and long-term prevention.
Plan, develop, and coordinate comprehensive safety surveys, assessments, and risk evaluations.
Design, prepare, and deliver safety and health training programs, including first aid, defensive driving, equipment operation, safe work practices, procedure updates, and regulatory changes.
Perform worksite inspections and field observations to evaluate safety program implementation, identify hazards, verify compliance, and support corrective and preventive actions.
Prepare, analyze, and distribute safety data, performance metrics, and trend reports to stakeholders.
Participate in safety committees, working groups, and meetings in an advisory capacity, providing guidance on hazard controls, compliance expectations, and safe operating procedures.
Advise and serve as a liaison to City departments on Health & Safety matters, providing technical assistance and support to resolve safety and health concerns.
Maintain current knowledge of emerging safety legislation, best practices, industry standards, and regulatory updates, and attend relevant meetings, training, and conferences.
Provide guidance and mentorship to City of Houston employees to strengthen workforce competency and understanding of the City’s Health & Safety Management System.
Conduct public-facing safety outreach, presentations, and educational sessions as part of citywide safety initiatives and training efforts.
Review, interpret, and communicate requirements from OSHA, AWWA, TCEQ, EPA, ANSI, NIOSH, and other applicable regulatory and industry entities to support compliance and alignment with City policies and Health & Safety.