Health and Safety Specialist - Solid Waste

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in occupational safety and health, industrial hygiene, environmental science, engineering, or related field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
OR
Associate’s degree from an accredited college in occupational safety and health or related field and three (three) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
OR
Combination of education and experience equivalent to five (5) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Required Special Qualifications:
OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER, and OSHA Outreach Trainer for General Industry or Construction certifications are required upon employment.

Nature of Work

Under general supervision, implements occupational health and safety programs for Environmental Resources solid waste operations. Administers safety programs, develops and conducts training, performs audits, and assists with investigations of workplace accidents. Collaborates with department leaders and the county-wide human resources safety and risk management team. Acts as an OSHA Outreach Trainer for General Industry or Construction Safety programs. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Implements environmental resources occupational health and safety programs, and policies. Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local safety regulations.
• Develops and maintains safety manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and compliance documentation.
• Conducts Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) and Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs). Develops health and safety plans and implements changes to reduce risk.
• Conducts safety training programs for employees, managers, contractors, and new hires, including OSHA specific training.
• Conducts industrial hygiene monitoring activities including air sampling, noise monitoring, exposure monitoring, heat stress monitoring, and biological monitoring. Coordinates occupational medical monitoring programs, and respirator fit testing.
• Assists with investigations of workplace safety incidents. Implements corrective actions, maintains documentation, and submits reports.
• Facilitates the department safety committee and maintains records.
• Assists with planning and safety oversight for capital projects, facility upgrades, and construction activities.
• Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of federal and state Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and safety standards.
• Knowledge of solid waste industry operations including landfills, waste-to-energy facilities, recycling, composting, transfer stations, and hazardous waste programs.
• Knowledge of industrial hygiene principles and practices.
• Knowledge of risk management principles.
• Skill in conducting employee safety training.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication, including presenting.
• Ability to analyze trends and recommend strategies to reduce workplace risk.
• Ability to conduct workplace incident investigations.
• Ability to prepare technical reports and procedure documentation.
• Ability to conduct job safety analyses and health and safety plans.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in operational and field environments.
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work.
• Ability to resolve problems.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.