Safety & Training Specialist

FERGUSON•Waterloo, IA

4d•$2,921 - $9,928•Onsite

About The Position

Ferguson is seeking a Safety & Training Specialist for their Waterloo Distribution Center. This role is responsible for leading associate training initiatives and fostering a strong safety culture. The specialist will ensure associates are trained, certified, and operating in compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. Ferguson, a Fortune 500 company with approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations, focuses on building better infrastructure, homes, and businesses, making customers' complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable.

Requirements

2+ years of training, safety, or related experience in a warehouse, distribution, or supply chain environment preferred.
Bachelor's degree or a minimum of 3 years of safety-specific experience preferred.
Experience developing and delivering training programs for adult learners.
Experience operating and training associates on Powered Industrial Equipment (PIT), including forklifts and pallet jacks.
Knowledge of OSHA regulations, workplace safety programs, and compliance requirements.
Ability to conduct Job Safety Analyses (JSA) and identify workplace hazards.
Demonstrated success implementing and supporting safety programs and initiatives.
Strong presentation, facilitation, and instructional skills with the ability to engage audiences at all levels.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and Power BI.
Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, coaching, and customer service skills.
Ability to influence peers and leaders while fostering a positive culture of safety and continuous learning.
Self-starter with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Willingness to work varied shifts, including occasional nights and weekends, based on business and safety needs.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds and work in a warehouse environment with varying conditions.
Passion for safety, associate development, and operational excellence.

Nice To Haves

OSHA certification preferred.
Experience creating training materials, PowerPoint presentations, and instructional content preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and manage best safety practices, programs, and procedures.
Administer safety training programs and health and safety initiatives for distribution center associates.
Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and Safe Operating Guidelines.
Conduct safety inspections and monitor the work environment to ensure facilities, equipment, and work practices meet safety requirements.
Identify workplace hazards, implement corrective actions, and proactively address safety concerns.
Document all safety incidents and assist with accident investigations, ensuring compliance with reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Compile and track safety metrics, including incident rates, restricted duty cases, and lost-time claims.
Oversee injured worker treatment plans and communicate with workers' compensation carriers to support case management through resolution.
Coordinate and lead Safety Committee meetings, including agenda preparation, communication, and meeting documentation.
Partner closely with the Regional Territory Safety Manager to align safety initiatives and maintain consistent safety practices.
Administer and support the 30-60-90 Day Health & Safety Onboarding Program.
Coach, mentor, and provide real-time feedback to associates regarding safe work practices.
Perform routine housekeeping and safety-related tasks to maintain a safe work environment.
Lead new hire orientation and communicate training schedules and expectations.
Conduct and facilitate on-the-job training programs for distribution center associates.
Train associates on warehouse operations, safety requirements, WMS processes, and standard operating procedures.
Lead all Powered Industrial Truck (PIT) training, including initial certifications, recertifications, evaluations, and accident retraining.
Develop and deliver recurring safety and compliance training programs.
Audit associate performance and work processes to ensure adherence to training standards, SOPs, and safety requirements.
Maintain accurate training records and certification documentation.
Audit departmental training processes to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Collaborate with Operations Managers and department leaders to identify training opportunities and drive continuous improvement.
Provide coaching, guidance, and mentorship to associates to support skill development and performance.
Develop training materials, presentations, and learning content to enhance associate engagement and knowledge retention.