Safety Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

The Safety Specialist plays a critical role in developing, implementing, and overseeing all safety initiatives across our network of autobody repair facilities. This position ensures full compliance with OSHA and EPA regulations, conducts regular site visits, partners with field management to maintain safe operations, and collaborates with internal teams to analyze injury trends and drive proactive prevention efforts. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and comfortable traveling to support our nationwide operations.

KEY RESPONSIBLITIES/JOB FUNCTION - Other duties may be assigned as necessary

• Lead and execute comprehensive safety programs and initiatives tailored to the autobody repair environment, including hazard identification, risk mitigation, and best practices for safe vehicle repair, equipment handling, chemical use, and shop operations.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, particularly OSHA standards (e.g., Hazard Communication, Personal Protective Equipment, Respiratory Protection, Lockout/Tagout) and EPA requirements (e.g., hazardous waste management, air emissions, spill prevention).
• Prepare for and support OSHA and EPA inspections/visits; serve as the primary point of contact during regulatory audits, investigations, or inquiries.
• Conduct regular field site visits (travel required at least once per month, plus additional as needed) to perform safety audits, inspections, and observations; identify potential hazards and work directly with store/field management to implement corrective actions and ensure safe working conditions.
• Partner with safety vendors (e.g., training providers, PPE suppliers, environmental consultants) to source resources, coordinate services, and evaluate program effectiveness.
• Collaborate closely with the Workers Compensation specialist and other internal partners to review injury/incident data, analyze trends, and develop targeted safety campaigns, training programs, and initiatives aimed at injury prevention and reduction. (Note: This role does not handle individual WC claims processing.)
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for employees, supervisors, and field teams, including new-hire onboarding, refresher sessions, and topic-specific workshops (e.g., safe chemical handling, ergonomics in repair work).
• Maintain accurate safety records, reports, and documentation; track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to incidents, near-misses, compliance, and program outcomes.
• Stay current on industry best practices, emerging regulations, and advancements in autobody repair safety to recommend updates to company policies and procedures.
• Promote a strong safety culture by engaging with teams, recognizing safe behaviors, and addressing concerns promptly.

SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelors degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health & Safety, Industrial Hygiene, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• 3+ years of experience in a safety/compliance role, ideally in automotive, collision repair, manufacturing, or a related industrial setting.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA General Industry standards (29 CFR 1910) and EPA regulations relevant to repair facilities (e.g., hazardous materials, waste disposal).
• Experience supporting regulatory inspections (OSHA/EPA) and conducting workplace audits/inspections.
• Proven ability to analyze safety data, identify trends, and implement prevention-focused programs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to partner effectively with field management, vendors, and internal teams.
• Comfortable with frequent travel (up to 25-40% including overnight stays).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reporting and presentations.
• Valid drivers license and ability to travel nationwide as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• OSHA 30-Hour General Industry certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience in the autobody/collision repair industry or similar hands-on repair environments.
• Familiarity with safety management systems (e.g., ISO 45001) or workers compensation trend analysis.
• Additional certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or Hazardous Materials Manager.

General Sign Off

This job description should not be considered to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Associates are expected to follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as may be required by the manager.