Safety Specialist

Job Description JOB TITLE: Safety SpecialistREPORTS TO: EHS ManagerJOB SUMMARY:The Safety Specialist is responsible for promoting and maintaining a safe, compliant, and proactive safety culture within a food ingredients manufacturing facility. This role supports the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of safety programs to ensure adherence to OSHA regulations, food safety standards, and company policies. The Safety Specialist works closely with production, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams to minimize risk, prevent incidents, and ensure a safe work environment.This position will assist in our Chilton and Manitowoc WI facilites.TYPICAL JOB DUTIES:Support and implement site safety programs, policies, and procedures in compliance with OSHA and company standardsConduct routine safety inspections, hazard assessments, and audits of production, warehouse, and laboratory areasIdentify unsafe conditions or behaviors and recommend corrective and preventive actionsInvestigate incidents, near misses, and injuries; document findings and track corrective actions to completionAssist in maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements (OSHA, EPA, FDA/food safety-related standards)Facilitate safety training programs, including onboarding, refresher training, and job-specific safety instructionPartner with supervisors and employees to reinforce safe work practices and behavioral-based safety initiativesMonitor and report key safety metrics (e.g., TRIR, near misses, corrective actions)Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical safety programs in accordance with Hazard Communication (HazCom) standardsParticipate in emergency response planning, drills, and incident preparedness initiativesSupport ergonomic assessments and initiatives to reduce workplace injuriesCollaborate with Quality and Food Safety teams to ensure alignment between safety and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) requirementsAssist with contractor safety programs and ensure compliance for outside vendorsMaintain accurate safety records and documentation for audits and inspectionsAdhere to all government and company safety, sanitation and GMP policies and regulations. Adhere to Food Safety, Quality and SQF Codes.Other duties as assigned by supervisor.REQUIREMENTS:Degree in Environmental Health & Safety, Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field, or equivalent work experience requiredWorking knowledge of OSHA regulations, EPA standards, and safety management systemsExperience conducting audits, inspections, and incident investigationsProficiency in Microsoft Office and EHS reporting systemsLeadership and influencing skillsProblem-solving and risk assessment abilitiesEffective communication and training facilitationHigh attention to detail and organizational skillsAbility to drive culture change and employee engagementSound judgment and decision-making