Lead Engineer, Machine Safety

Role, Function & Organization  The Lead Engineer, Machine Safety provides advanced technical leadership in evaluating, designing, and implementing machine safety solutions for industrial automation systems. This role ensures compliance with applicable safety standards and regulations while guiding best practices across projects and client engagements.This position serves as a subject matter expert and technical authority for machine safety initiatives. It plays a key role in mentoring and guiding other machine safety engineers, supporting complex safety assessments, and influencing safety strategy, standards, and continuous improvement efforts across the organization.At PPC Partners we believe in the Power to Serve along with the Pursuit of Excellence.  As such the following values guide our behaviors: A Servant's Heart -- Focus on the Needs of Others, Wisdom -- Insightful, Integrity -- Honesty and Trustworthy, Courage -- Decisive and Confident in Others, Humility -- Modest and Respectful, Passion -- Unfailing DedicationEssential Duties And ResponsibilitiesMachine Safety Design & Risk Assessment:Conduct comprehensive hazard analyses and risk assessmentsImplement ISO 12100 and other relevant safety standards to develop effective risk mitigation strategiesDesign and integrate machine safety systems such as emergency stop systems (E-Stops), light curtains, interlocks, and other safety mechanisms tailored to client requirementsDevelop and program Programmable Safety Controllers to enhance workplace safetyRegulatory Compliance & Standards AdherenceEnsure client compliance with OSHA, ANSI B11, ISO, and other applicable safety regulations and industry guidelinesProvide guidance and support during safety audits and assessmentsAssist clients in improving their safety procedures to prevent future riskAdvise clients on best practices for designing collaborative robots and industrial automation systems with force limits, redundancy, and fail-safe mechanismsIncident Investigation & Continuous ImprovementInvestigate workplace incidents involving industrial automation to identify root causes and propose design modificationsContribute to the continuous improvement of client safety procedures by identifying trends and promoting proactive solutions to prevent future risksMentorship & GuidanceProvide technical mentorship and guidance to machine safety engineers at all levelsReview safety designs, assessments, and documentation for quality, accuracy, and complianceSupport training and skill development initiatives within the machine safety disciplineShare lessons learned, best practices, and emerging trends to strengthen overall team capabilityServe as a trusted technical resource for cross-functional teams, including automation, design, and project managementSafety/Hazard Recognition & Elimination: Pre-plan and identify the methods to eliminate hazards daily by work task. Execute skill in observing habits and hazards of others and bringing it to their attention. Uphold safety as the most important goal of our company.  Support goal of achieving zero accidents. Promote and encourage open communication between field and office regarding all safety concerns, suggestions, improvements, and PPE needed. Obtain safety training as expected by all company personnel. Qualifications And Requirements High School Diploma (or equivalent) requiredBachelor's degree in safety engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field preferredPrevious experience with Machine Safety Certifications such as Certified Machine Safety Expert (CMSE), Functional Safety Engineer (TÜV Rheinland, TÜV SÜD), Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or ANSI B11 LMSS are a plusExperience, Skill And Abilities Positive safety attitude and personal integrity -- both are non-negotiableKnowledge of safety programmingStrong written and verbal communication skillsPhysical Requirements  Office and field environment requiring sitting and standing. Travel to various work sites is essential, possibly exposing employee to outdoor elements, noise and the need to stand and walk.