Safety Specialist I

San Diego County Regional Airport Authority • San Diego, CA

20h • Onsite

About The Position

The Human Resources department is looking for a Safety Specialist I with a proactive, people-first mindset focused on building a strong culture of workplace safety across the organization. This role is about protecting people, strengthening accountability, and helping teams do great work in environments that are safe, compliant, and well-prepared. It serves as an official ambassador of safety at SAN by blending field presence, training delivery, program support, and on-call response in a dynamic airport environment where safety standards matter every single day.
As part of the Authority’s career pathway program, School 2 SAN, this opportunity connects recent graduates and emerging professionals in occupational safety, public health, risk management, or related fields with meaningful, hands-on work at a globally recognized airport. Participants gain real-world experience, earn industry-recognized certifications supported by the Authority, and build the foundation for long-term growth in workplace safety within a dynamic public agency environment.
The ideal candidate will be proactive, collaborative, confident in delivering clear and respectful feedback when safety standards are at risk, and motivated to grow into a trusted ambassador of safety across the organization. This role provides unique access across the SAN campus, including terminal spaces, operational areas, and behind-the-scenes environments rarely seen by the public, offering firsthand insight into how safety systems function in a complex, high-traffic setting.

Requirements

• Risk Assessment & Regulatory Knowledge – Identify hazards, analyze risks, and apply OSHA, Cal/OSHA, workers’ compensation, vehicle safety, ergonomics, and related safety standards to recommend practical solutions.
• Safety Program Execution – Support the development and implementation of workplace safety programs with an understanding of how departments operate across the organization.
• Relationship Management & Influence – Build trust with diverse stakeholders, provide clear guidance, resolve conflict professionally, and uphold safety standards with confidence.
• Consultation & Communication – Communicate safety requirements clearly in writing and verbally; guide stakeholders through problem-solving and corrective actions.
• Project & Time Management – Prioritize tasks, manage multiple assignments, and implement safety initiatives within established timelines.
• Adaptability & Technology Proficiency – Adjust to changing conditions and use safety-related systems and reporting tools to track metrics and support decision-making.
• Two years of occupational health and employee safety experience
• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in occupational health & safety, employee safety management, loss control, risk management, construction management, or a closely related field.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Authority’s vehicle insurance policy.

Nice To Haves

• Completed OSHA 30-hour general industry course
• Current CPR and First Aid Instructor certification
• Associate Safety Professional (ASP) or Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
• Experience in Airport Operations or previous work in an Airport environment

Responsibilities

• Workplace Safety Programs: Support and promote a culture of safety by identifying hazards, coordinating assessments, implementing the Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP), and participating in emergency response activities (on-call rotation as needed).
• Workers’ Compensation & Case Management: Coordinate and track workers’ compensation claims; manage return-to-work processes; and serve as a resource to employees, medical providers, and third-party administrators.
• Audits & Inspections: Conduct safety inspections and field visits; respond to incidents; document findings; and track corrective actions to ensure compliance.
• Training & Safety Engagement: Develop and deliver safety training; facilitate committees and meetings; and promote safe work practices across departments.
• Vehicle & Ergonomics Programs: Support fleet driving safety initiatives and coordinate ergonomic evaluations and related equipment needs.
• Compliance & Reporting: Maintain OSHA records and required documentation; monitor program effectiveness; and recommend improvements aligned with regulatory standards.
• Operational Driving: Drive an Airport Authority vehicle to perform field inspections, respond to safety incidents, access multiple work sites across the SAN campus, and support fleet and safety program operations.

Benefits

• You will enjoy 14 paid holidays, 18 – 33 days of vacation (PTO), parental and child care benefits, salary continuance for family & parental leave, tuition reimbursement, ensure your future with our retirement plan options including our comprehensive pension plan and 457 defined contribution plan.
• Plus, take advantage of our annual employer-funded Lifestyle Spending Account, designed to support your personal development and growth activities—and much more!
• Take advantage of multiple on-site gyms with regular fitness classes, outdoor working areas, fitness discounts for all levels and goals, monthly fruit deliveries, rewards for volunteer time, financial wellness advisors, and a campus with easy access to some of San Diego's best walking trails.

What This Job Offers

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