SAFETY AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SPECIALIST - 40001834

Durham County Government, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a vital public institution committed to serving a diverse and vibrant community. Employing over 2,000 professionals, the county government plays a significant role in delivering essential services that enhance the quality of life in the region. As a key part of a rapidly growing area, Durham County offers meaningful and stable career opportunities across a wide range of fields, including human resources, public safety, administration, health services, and community development. The organization prides itself on fostering an inclusive work environment where employees have a real impact on their community through dedicated service and innovative initiatives. More information about the county and its services can be found on their website at www.dconc.gov.

The Human Resources Department of Durham County is currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Safety and Workers’ Compensation Specialist to join their dynamic team on a full-time basis (37.5 hours per week, exempt position). This role offers a competitive salary range of $61,041 to $82,369, reflecting the level of responsibility and expertise required. The Specialist will focus on developing and managing county-wide safety programs aimed at promoting a safe and healthy work environment for all employees. The role involves conducting comprehensive work-site inspections, investigating accidents and injuries, and implementing hazard reduction and elimination strategies.

Reporting directly to the Safety & Workers’ Compensation Manager, the successful candidate will take a proactive approach in collaborating across various departments to assess safety and loss control needs, develop training materials, and ensure compliance with federal and state safety regulations. Key responsibilities include planning and organizing safety and incentive programs to motivate employee participation, conducting incident investigations to determine root causes and safety issues, and managing the OSHA recordkeeping and regulatory compliance programs.

This position also entails managing property and casualty claims related to auto liability, general liability, workers’ compensation, and property damage. The Specialist will interact with claimants and insurers, maintain thorough claims file documentation, and prepare statistical reports to inform management decisions. Analytical skills are essential for reviewing claim loss trends and developing recommendations to enhance safety programs. Additionally, the role demands strong communication skills, both oral and written, to convey complex safety information effectively to employees at all levels as well as to external contacts.

Candidates suitable for this role will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of Federal and North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health regulations, Environmental Protection Agency requirements, National Fire Protection Association standards, and other related safety protocols. They will exhibit strong problem-solving capabilities, training and presentation skills, and the ability to foster a culture of safety within the county government workforce. A bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety or a related field coupled with at least two years of progressively responsible experience in safety is required. A valid North Carolina Driver’s License is also mandatory.

Durham County Government is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act by offering reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals. The position may be subject to a comprehensive background check to ensure suitability for employment. This opportunity offers a chance to contribute significantly to public safety and risk management in a supportive and professional environment, facilitating career growth and community impact.