Construction Safety Lead - Field & Excavation

Benchmark Utility Services; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Benchmark Utility Services is seeking an Assistant Safety Manager with a background in construction to help develop and oversee safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and PPE usage. This role reports to the Senior Safety Manager and Safety Manager.

The position emphasizes site inspections, audits, incident investigations, documentation, and fostering a strong safety culture across multiple job sites, including excavation and trenching safety.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two or more years of experience in a safety-related role, ideally within underground utility construction.
• OSHA 510 certification, or Safety Trained Supervisor–Construction (STSC) certification.
• Valid First Aid, CPR, and AED certification.
• Familiarity with OSHA/DOT regulations and safety practices for excavation, traffic control, confined spaces, and utility coordination.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to work effectively with field and office personnel.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and safety reporting tools.
• Valid driver’s license with ability to travel to multiple job sites.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the implementation and monitoring of the company’s Safety and Health Management System (SHMS).
• Conducts regular site inspections and safety audits to identify hazards and ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company safety policies.
• Help facilitate Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), Pre-Task Plans, and Tailgate Safety Meetings.
• Monitors the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ensure all crew members are properly equipped.
• Participates in incident and near‑miss investigations; assists with root cause analysis and correction action tracking.
• Maintains and organizes safety documentation, inspection records, training logs, and incident reports.
• Provides field‑level support during high‑risk activities such as excavation, trenching, utility exposure, confined space work, and equipment operation.
• Promotes a positive safety culture by building relationships with field staff and encouraging safe work practices.
• Presents safety information and documentation to various General Contractors (GCs).
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Safety leadership

Communication skills

MS Office

Safety reporting tools

Driver's license

Bilingual: English/Spanish

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety or related field

Tools

Safety software

Job description

Benchmark Utility Services is seeking an Assistant Safety Manager with a background in construction to help develop and oversee safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and PPE usage. This role reports to the Senior Safety Manager and Safety Manager.

The position emphasizes site inspections, audits, incident investigations, documentation, and fostering a strong safety culture across multiple job sites, including excavation and trenching safety.