Health & Safety Program Manager (Southern CA)

American Water; Imperial Beach (CA); On-site; USD 67,160 - 112,240; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) plan

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Job summary

American Water is seeking a Health & Safety Program Manager based in Southern California. This full-time role is pivotal in overseeing health and safety programs critical to the organization’s operations. You will develop safety training programs, conduct audits, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

The position requires an associate degree, a minimum of five years of relevant experience, and knowledge of occupational safety practices. American Water offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years' experience in safety/loss control.
• Familiarity with safety compliance in municipal operations.
• Ability to integrate regulatory requirements into training.

Responsibilities

• Oversee health & safety programs and policies across Southern California.
• Conduct safety compliance audits and inspections.
• Develop and implement safety training programs.

Skills

Knowledge of Company Risk Management Policies

Understanding of occupational safety regulations

Experience in safety audits

Ability to conduct safety training

Education

Associate degree in safety/loss control

Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Job Title

Health & Safety Program Manager (Southern CA)

Posting Start Date: 5/15/26

Position Information

Base salary range: $67,160 to $112,240 annually. The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!

Primary Role

California American Water is seeking a full-time, safety‑driven professional to join our team. Safety is the cornerstone of our work and drives our activities, goals, and decisions. Health & Safety plays a critical role throughout the organization. As a Health & Safety Program Manager, you will oversee and help manage health & safety programs, policies, and practices across the Southern California footprint.

Note this role has the flexibility to report from any of our operating territories within Southern California (Rosemead, Imperial Beach, Newbury Park, LA, Ventura County).

The Health & Safety Program Manager assists the Sr. H&S Manager in the areas of safety & health claims administration, insurance services, and loss control.

This role will recommend, review/update, and implement appropriate H&S programs and Cal OSHA‑related activities that enhance the safety and health of company employees, as well as minimize the company’s exposure to potential losses.

Key Accountabilities

• Develop and implement Health & Safety training programs and activities that help develop and improve employee competency as well as safety processes within the company to maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Develop and implement regulatory compliance programs, including investigating new technologies, providing professional review and recommendations for the purchase and safe use of tools, materials, and equipment that will enhance safety performance throughout the organization.
• Conduct safety compliance audits, inspections, job observations, and safety walkthroughs to identify hazards and deficiencies that may expose the company to potential losses or non‑compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret data related to safety training and performance to measure the effectiveness of existing written safety programs.
• Provide assistance and expertise in incident/claim investigation and claims management, when required, and make recommendations to prevent reoccurrences.

Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of Company Risk Management Policies and Procedures and federal, state, and local regulations applicable to occupational safety and health.
• Working knowledge of the various functional areas and their roles in the organization, including operating procedures of the company.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations, as well as the functional areas of a water utility, to develop and implement appropriate risk management activities associated with departmental goals.
• Demonstrated understanding of a water utility operation, knowledge, and ability to integrate regulatory requirements into the training and development of all operating unit employees.
• Familiarity with the geographic location of operating centers and facilities to conduct H&S training, audits and inspections, job safety observations, project site assessments, and contractor evaluations; and ability to attend scheduled meetings.

Experience & Education

• Associate level degree required in a related field (e.g., safety/loss control).
• Bachelor's level degree preferred.
• Minimum five years’ experience in safety/loss control in a related industry or municipal operation.

Travel Requirements

• Primarily limited to the region; some overnight travel may be required.
• Must be flexible.

Work Environment

• Varies by task; environment does include field work, driving, and working outdoors.

Schedule

• Full‑time, on‑site.
• Monday–Friday, 7 am–3:30 pm.
• On‑call responsibility.

Competencies

• Champions safety.
• Collaborates.
• Cultivates innovation.
• Customer obsessed.
• Drives results.
• Nimble learning.