Safety Manager

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 a premier design-build, site and underground utility construction firm, completing over 500 projects spanning over ten (10) years. With a heavy focus on mission critical facilities, our teams collaborate seamlessly to ensure our customers receive the highest level of service in the construction industry. At Benchmark, our success is fueled by our exceptional workforce. We prioritize training and professional development, encouraging our team to expand and enhance their unique skills, so they can fully realize their potential. If you are driven and passionate about excellence, we want to hear from you. Join us and be a part of our dynamic team, where your skills and ambitions will be nurtured and valued.

Position Summary

The Safety Manager must have a background in the construction industry, preferably with in excavation and trenching safety. This individual is responsible for developing and overseeing safety protocols for the company, ensuring staff members are well-informed on emergency preparedness, use of protective equipment, and accident procedures.

Essential Duties and 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 in incident investigations, root cause analysis, and track implementation of corrective/preventive actions
• Assists the Senior Safety Manager to coordinate with utility owners, project managers, and subcontractors to plan safe work practices
• Ensures proper use and maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), shoring systems, traffic control devices, and utility locating practices
• Monitor compliance with DOT regulations for drivers and vehicles used in utility operations
• Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations and update company policies as needed
• Presents safety information and documentation to various General Contractors (GCs)
• Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Five plus (5+) years of safety management experience in underground utility construction or similar industry
• OSHA 500/510 certification
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting statistics
• Knowledge of utility coordination practices, and excavation safety (including 811 One Call processes)
• Experience with trench safety, confined space entry, and energized systems
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• Excellent supervisory and leadership skills
• Proficiency with safety reporting software and Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in occupational safety, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred
• Excellent knowledge of OSHA standards and federal safety legislation
• CSP, CHST, or other professional certifications strongly preferred
• Solid understanding of potentially hazardous materials and practices in the workplace.
• Familiarity with writing health and safety policies and procedures
• Working knowledge of safety management software

Benefits

Benchmark Utility Services offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits and a dynamic work environment that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth.

Equal Opportunity Employer.