Safety Specialist

Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services is a dynamic and progressive governmental organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the community's environmental health and infrastructure. Known for its commitment to public service and innovative practices, the department encompasses multiple bureaus that focus on ensuring safe, sustainable, and efficient environmental operations for Arlington's residents and businesses. Their operations span a variety of complex environments, including public works, solid waste management, and equipment maintenance, playing a vital role in the county's day-to-day operations and long-term environmental goals.

The Safety Specialist role within Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services is a critical position that champions workplace safety throughout some of the county's most operationally complex environments. This position is responsible for fostering a culture of safety, compliance, and continuous improvement, partnering closely with both employees and management. The Safety Specialist is primarily focused on supporting the Equipment Bureau and Solid Waste Bureau, ensuring that all safety programs align with County, OSHA, VOSH, DOT, and other applicable regulatory requirements.

This employment opportunity is full-time, offering a starting salary that reflects the candidate's qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans. The role entails a combination of office work and field inspections, requiring the incumbent to operate effectively in diverse conditions, including exposure to weather elements and physical activities such as lifting and bending.

Key responsibilities include developing, implementing, and continuously improving safety programs, policies, and procedures that support departmental operations. The Safety Specialist conducts thorough hazard assessments and risk evaluations, recommending corrective actions to mitigate risks and promote a proactive safety culture among department staff. An important dimension of this role is the development and delivery of targeted safety training programs and materials that address operational risks, regulatory compliance, and employee development needs.

The role also involves conducting various types of safety inspections, audits, and investigations to ensure compliance and to identify opportunities for enhancements. Analyzing accident and incident data is critical to this position, as it informs trend identification and preventive strategies. Collaboration is an essential component of the Safety Specialist's duties, engaging with departmental leadership, safety personnel, risk management teams, external vendors, and regulatory agencies to advance safety initiatives and resolve compliance issues.

Moreover, the Safety Specialist monitors emerging trends in safety practices, industrial hygiene, fleet safety, and regulatory changes. They recommend and implement improvements to safety equipment, practices, and operational controls, ensuring that the department remains a leader in workplace safety. Additionally, meticulous documentation and reporting related to safety activities and compliance are vital to sustain accountability and transparency.

The position requires a highly motivated professional with an Associate's degree in safety sciences or a related field and considerable experience in technical safety work within industrial environments. The ideal candidate possesses certifications such as ASP or CSP, Defensive Driving Instructor certification, and OSHA Outreach Trainer credentials, alongside practical knowledge of fleet safety technologies including AVL/GPS and in-vehicle camera systems.

This role demands flexibility and readiness to work outside standard hours, including evenings and weekends, as well as availability during emergencies. Some telework options may be available based on supervisor approval. Arlington County emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its services and programs, creating a supportive environment for employees.

Joining Arlington County as a Safety Specialist means becoming part of a community-focused organization that values professional development, offers competitive compensation, and prioritizes the health and safety of its workforce. This position is an excellent opportunity for safety professionals who are passionate about making a tangible impact in complex operational settings, contributing to the well-being of employees and the broader community.