Job Title: Safety Manager– Utility-Scale Solar Project
Location: Darlington County, South Carolina
Reports To: Project Manager / Corporate Safety Manager
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt or Non-Exempt (depending on role structure)
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Safety Manager to lead all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) operations for a utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar construction project. The Safety Manager will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the project's safety program, ensuring full compliance with OSHA regulations, client requirements, and company policies. This individual will work closely with project management, craft leadership, and subcontractors to proactively identify and mitigate risks while fostering a culture where safety is integrated into every aspect of construction operations.
The Safety Manager will supervise onsite safety personnel, develop site-specific safety initiatives, oversee incident investigations, and serve as the primary liaison between the project team, corporate safety leadership, and client representatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of the project's Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Program.
- Develop, maintain, and enforce the Site-Specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP).
- Supervise, mentor, and evaluate Safety Coordinators and other onsite safety personnel.
- Conduct regular jobsite safety inspections, audits, and compliance evaluations.
- Lead daily safety briefings, weekly safety meetings, and project-wide safety initiatives.
- Review and approve Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), Activity Hazard Analyses (AHAs), and pre-task plans.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, client safety requirements, and company policies.
- Lead investigations of incidents, near misses, property damage, and environmental events, including root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
- Analyze safety trends and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Coordinate emergency response planning, drills, and site emergency preparedness.
- Oversee safety orientation and training programs for employees, subcontractors, and visitors.
- Ensure proper documentation of inspections, permits, certifications, incident reports, and regulatory records.
- Monitor environmental conditions and implement controls for heat stress, severe weather, wildlife, confined spaces, excavation, energized work, fall protection, and other high-risk activities.
- Partner with project leadership to integrate safety into scheduling, planning, and daily operations.
- Serve as the primary point of contact during client audits, OSHA inspections, and regulatory visits.
- Promote a positive safety culture through coaching, leadership, accountability, and employee engagement.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 7 years of construction safety experience, with at least 3 years in a Safety Manager or Lead Safety role on utility-scale solar, industrial, heavy civil, power generation, or large commercial construction projects.
- One of the following is required:
- OSHA 500 – Trainer Course in Occupational Safety and Health Standards for Construction
- CHST (Construction Health and Safety Technician)
- Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health & Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Construction Management, or a closely related field
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certification (required).
- Current First Aid/CPR/AED Certification.
- Extensive knowledge of OSHA 29 CFR 1926 construction standards.
- Proven leadership experience managing safety personnel and influencing project teams.
- Strong understanding of hazard recognition, risk assessment, incident investigation, and corrective action development.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with digital safety management systems and reporting software.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and access all areas of an active construction site.
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
Preferred Qualifications
- CSP (Certified Safety Professional)
- ASP (Associate Safety Professional)
- STS-C (Safety Trained Supervisor – Construction)
- Experience on utility-scale renewable energy EPC projects.
- Experience managing multiple safety professionals on large construction projects.
- Knowledge of environmental compliance, SWPPP, and permitting requirements.
- EM 385-1-1 experience (preferred for federal projects).
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to walk extensive distances across active construction sites.
- Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and uneven terrain.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to wear required PPE for extended periods.
- Ability to work in extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, and other outdoor conditions.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Paid Time Off and Holidays
- Company Vehicle or Vehicle Allowance (if applicable)
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Professional Development and Certification Assistance
