Safety Assistant

Michael Foods Inc.; Mars Hill (ME); On-site; USD 26,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Michael Foods, Inc. in Mars Hill, Maine, is seeking a Safety Assistant to support safety programs, audits, training, and recordkeeping.

This entry‑level role provides hands‑on exposure to OSHA regulations and safety leadership responsibilities, with clear progression paths within MFI’s safety career ladder. You will manage safety records, enter data into Intelex, assist in audits and investigations, coordinate training attendance, and help ensure food safety and quality practices.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of health and safety experience in manufacturing.
• Ability to obtain OSHA 10 certification within 180 days of employment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage safety records and ensure documentation is accurate and accessible.
• Enter data into Intelex for safety observations, audits, and training.
• Conduct workplace safety audits and inspections for risk identification and corrective actions.
• Assist in incident investigations and prepare reports with recommended corrective measures.
• Travel occasionally to assist with safety audits and training across MFI facilities.
• Fill in for Safety Manager/Supervisor when needed to ensure safety oversight.

Skills

Safety training

Data analysis

Recordkeeping

MS Office

Education

High School Diploma

Associate degree

Tools

Intelex

Job description

Business Unit Overview

Michael Foods, Inc. is a leader in the food processing and distribution industry with business in egg products, refrigerated grocery and potato products. We offer exciting job possibilities throughout our organization where you can enhance your career, sharpen your talents and make an impact. Join our company and be part of an innovative team that’s First in Food.

Location Description

Michael Foods, Inc. located in Mars Hill, Maine. Pineland Farms is one of the largest food manufacturing organizations located in Aroostook County. Our Mars Hill facility has over 200 incredible team members who work together to provide our customers with the best possible potato product.

Responsibilities

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Safety Manager/Supervisor, this role supports the facility’s safety programs, compliance efforts, training initiatives, and recordkeeping while reinforcing workplace safety as a core value. This position provides foundational experience in OSHA regulations, audits, risk assessment, and employee safety engagement, offering hands‑on exposure to safety leadership responsibilities. By actively contributing to data tracking, safety observations, and SRMP team participation, the Safety Assistant ensures alignment with company‑wide safety objectives and regulatory compliance. The role also provides critical administrative and operational support, preparing employees for advancement within MFI’s safety leadership structure.

This position has the responsibility to comply with Safety work rules at all times as well as an obligation to reinforce Safety as a Core Value. Ensures that all policies, procedures and activities, related to Food Safety & Quality, are followed and complied with uniformly, in an effort to reduce product and process variability.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage, process, and maintain safety records, ensuring documentation is accurate, compliant, and accessible for use by the Safety Office and SRMP element teams.
• Facilitate data entry into safety management platforms (Intelex) to track safety observations, audits, and training compliance.
• Conduct workplace safety audits and inspections, supporting risk identification and corrective action planning.
• Assist in safety training sessions, tracking attendance and ensuring employees receive required compliance education.
• Support incident investigations, compiling reports and assisting in identifying corrective measures for unsafe conditions and behaviors.
• Ensure contractor adherence to workplace safety guidelines during site projects.
• Participate in safety‑related committees and SRMP element teams, contributing to compliance initiatives.
• Distribute PPE and safety materials, ensuring employees have proper protective equipment.
• Provide administrative support to the Safety Manager/Supervisor, including documentation updates and compliance tracking.
• Assist in Behavior-Based Safety (BBSO) initiatives, conducting observations and tracking data to improve safety performance.
• Travel occasionally to assist with safety audits, training, and compliance efforts across MFI facilities.
• Fill in for the Safety Manager/Supervisor when necessary, ensuring continuity in safety oversight.
• Accountable for a safe and healthy workplace for everyone. Adhere to all safety policies and procedures and, incorporate safety and health in all jobs and tasks.
• Adhere to Quality work practices, follow GMP’s, maintain sanitary conditions and ensure that product quality is maintained. Report to management any conditions or practices that may adversely affect food safety and quality.
• Perform other safety‑related duties as assigned, including working flexible shifts, weekends, and overtime as required.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or two‑year technical training preferred.
• 1–3 years of experience in health and safety within a manufacturing environment.

PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Experience facilitating basic safety meetings and engaging employees in compliance efforts.
• Previous involvement in risk management and workplace safety programs.
• Familiarity with OSHA standards and adult learning principles related to safety training.
• Ability to obtain OSHA 10-hour certification within 180 days of employment.
• Ability to obtain First Aid/CPR/AED or First Responder certification within 180 days of employment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to train and present basic safety concepts effectively.
• Strong organizational skills, ensuring efficient recordkeeping and compliance reporting.
• Ability to analyze and interpret safety data from inspections, audits, and incident reports.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and safety management systems (Intelex).
• Experience assisting with incident investigations and compliance monitoring.
• Ability to work with employees from diverse backgrounds and learning styles.
• Capability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects effectively.

CAREER PROGRESSION

The Safety Assistant is an entry‑level position designed as the first step in MFI’s Safety Career Path, leading to roles such as:

• Safety Supervisor
• Safety Manager
• Regional Safety Manager

The pay range for this position is $19.12 to $25.24 per hour.