Lead Site Safety Manager – Underground Utilities

Benchmark Utility Services; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Benchmark Utility Services is seeking a Safety Manager with a strong background in excavation and trench safety to develop and oversee safety protocols for our utility construction operations. You will ensure staff are trained on emergency procedures, PPE use, and incident response across active job sites.

You will lead audits, incident investigations, and JHA development while coordinating with project managers and subcontractors to enforce safe practices and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; 5+ years safety management experience in underground utility construction or similar
• OSHA 500/510 certification required; CSP/CHST or similar certifications preferred
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting; knowledge of utility coordination and excavation safety (811 One Call)
• Experience with trench safety, confined space entry, and energized systems
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills; supervisory abilities

Responsibilities

• Manages the Site-Specific Safety and Health Policy and Procedures (SSP)
• Serves as the primary safety resource and authority for a particular job site
• Conducts regular job site audits and inspections to ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, NESC, and company safety policies
• Manages and maintains documentation related to safety training, incident reporting, corrective actions, and regulatory compliance
• Provides safety leadership and support for field crews and Assistant Safety Manager during high-risk tasks such as excavation near live utilities, working around traffic, and operating heavy equipment
• Conducts and documents Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), Pre-Task Plans, and Safety Briefings
• Leads incident investigations, root cause analysis, and track implementation of corrective/preventive actions
• Coordinates with utility owners, project managers, and subs to plan safe work practices
• Ensures proper use and maintenance of PPE, shoring systems, traffic control devices, and utility locating practices
• Monitors compliance with DOT regulations for drivers and vehicles used in utility operations
• Maintains current knowledge of applicable regulations and updates company policies
• Presents safety information and documentation to General Contractors
• Performs other duties as assigned

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Data analysis

Safety management

Education

High school diploma or GED

OSHA 500/510 certification

Bachelor’s degree in occupational safety or related field (preferred)

Tools

Safety reporting software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Benchmark Utility Services is seeking a Safety Manager with a strong background in excavation and trench safety to develop and oversee safety protocols for our utility construction operations. You will ensure staff are trained on emergency procedures, PPE use, and incident response across active job sites.

You will lead audits, incident investigations, and JHA development while coordinating with project managers and subcontractors to enforce safe practices and regulatory compliance.