Safety & Risk Specialist

City of Wilmington•929 N. Front Street, NC

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The City of Wilmington is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Position Description One City. Building a Culture of Safety Together. Safety is more than policies and procedures—it's a shared commitment. As the Safety and Risk Specialist, you'll help shape a culture where employees are empowered with the knowledge, training, and resources to work safely every day. By leading safety programs, managing compliance efforts, and promoting continuous improvement, you'll make a meaningful difference for employees across the organization while helping the City deliver exceptional service to the community. Why this role matters: The work you do protects our most valuable resource—our people. By preventing injuries, reducing organizational risk, and ensuring employees have the training and resources to perform their jobs safely, you'll help keep City operations running efficiently while safeguarding the employees who serve our community every day. Your efforts directly support a healthier workforce, stronger public services, and a safer future. This posting will remain open until filled.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree or higher in a related field
Five (5) years of related experience or a ny equivalent combination of education, experience and training sufficient to effectively perform the essential functions of the position.
Valid Class C Driver's License

Nice To Haves

NIMS 100, 200, 300, 400 and 700
Completion of the OSHA 30-hour general industry program, OSH (Occupational Safety and Health) or MESH (Manger of Environmental, Safety, and Health) certification from an accredited organization such as NCCA or CESB or nationally recognized accrediting.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and continuously improve department safety, accident prevention, and risk management programs that align with City-wide safety goals and operational procedures.
Identify and assess workplace hazards, evaluate risks, recommend corrective and preventive actions, and monitor the effectiveness of implemented safety controls.
Analyze safety trends, maintain records, and recommend process improvements to strengthen compliance, accountability, and organizational performance.
Collaborate with department leadership and employees to foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Assess employee training needs and coordinate safety training programs with the Safety and Risk Management Department and external training providers.
Develop, coordinate, and deliver classroom and hands-on training on topics such as OSHA compliance, hazard recognition, PPE, emergency procedures, and other safety initiatives.
Monitor employee training progress, evaluate third-party training effectiveness, and maintain training records to ensure compliance and achievement of organizational objectives.
Assist with developing departmental training budgets and purchasing training programs and related materials consistent with City guidelines.
Coordinate accident and incident investigations with supervisors and managers to identify root causes and develop corrective and preventive actions.
Monitor corrective actions through completion, communicate investigation findings to leadership, and apply lessons learned to improve training, procedures, and overall workplace safety.
Track safety metrics and accident trends to identify opportunities for proactive risk reduction and improved safety performance.
Conduct or oversee facility and worksite safety inspections to identify hazards and ensure compliance with OSHA and other applicable regulations.
Document inspection findings, coordinate corrective actions with department leadership, verify the effectiveness of implemented controls, and maintain inspection records.
Serve as the department's backup liaison with regulatory agencies such as OSHA and the EPA, as needed.
Coordinate temporary light-duty assignments and return-to-work plans for injured employees in collaboration with supervisors, managers, and employees.
Monitor employee progress, coordinate workplace accommodations, ensure compliance with applicable policies and regulations, and maintain communication throughout the return-to-work process.
Prepare reports on safety performance, training activities, compliance, and workforce development initiatives for department leadership.
Communicate safety initiatives, policy updates, and program changes through regular safety meetings and ongoing collaboration with departments.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options
Excellent retirement benefits, including a city provided 4.5% contribution each pay period into a 401(k) account and automatic enrollment into the North Carolina Local Government Employees’ Retirement System
Employer-paid health & wellness clinic
Free on-site city gym access
Paid sick and vacation leave + 13 paid holidays per year
6-weeks paid parental leave
Paid volunteer & blood donation leave to give back to our community
Flex schedule and telework availability, depending on your position
Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives
Tuition assistance benefits