Senior Safety Specialist

Job ID: 19616 

Alternate Locations:  

Newell Brands is a leading consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands like Graco®, Coleman®, Oster®, Rubbermaid®, Sharpie® and Yankee Candle® - and 24,000 talented teammates around the world. Our culture is built on values in action: Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership, and Leadership. We work together to win, grow, and make a real impact—supported by a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative environment where you can be your best, every day.

Primary Purpose of Position:

The Safety Specialist supports the Safety Manager in maintaining and enhancing the plant’s safety programs. This role focuses on improving workforce safety awareness, reducing occupational injuries and illnesses, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and minimizing financial losses related to safety incidents. Responsibilities include planning, implementing, and coordinating safety initiatives, conducting training, and promoting a culture of safety throughout the facility.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a subject matter expert on safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Partner with plant leadership to cultivate a safety-first culture focused on achieving zero incidents.
• Lead behavior-based safety initiatives and drive employee engagement in safety programs.
• Analyze safety data trends to inform decision-making and prioritize ergonomic improvements.
• Assist departments in developing and maintaining Job Safety Analyses (JSAs).
• Conduct regular safety audits and support process improvement efforts.
• Develop and manage health and safety programs in alignment with corporate and regulatory standards.
• Deliver safety training programs, including new hire orientation and compliance training.
• Identify and assess workplace hazards and recommend corrective actions.
• Monitor and report on Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) and other key safety metrics.
• Oversee incident reporting, investigation, and documentation within the safety management system.
• Verify the successful implementation of corrective actions
• Act as first responder for workplace incidents and administer basic First Aid as needed.
• Manage workers’ compensation processes, including OSHA log maintenance and return-to-work coordination.
• Collaborate with the Plant Leadership Team to proactively address safety concerns and implement solutions.
• Plans and manages Emergency Response Training and Drills
• Is on-call to respond to incidents or provide information.
• Support Continuous Improvement (PEAK) expansion at the site. Work with project managers to ensure EHS issues are identified early in the project development process and are evaluated and addressed.

Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of OSHA and other relevant local, state, and federal safety regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective presentation and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated leadership and coaching skills across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to work cross-functionally to strengthen the safety culture.
• Skilled in conflict resolution and maintaining professionalism under pressure.
• Experience in project planning and execution.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook).

Skills:

• OSHA-30 Certification (preferred)
• Completion of SEAL (Safety Excellence and Leadership) Training
• Completion of all OSHA-required training
• Additional training as assigned by supervision

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Frequent presence on the manufacturing floor and in office settings.
• Ability to walk, stand, and move between work areas throughout the day.
• May require lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Exposure to manufacturing conditions including noise, dust, and machinery.
• Required use of PPE in production areas.
• Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends as needed.

“The Virginia base pay range for this position is from $70,400 to $96,800. Salary will be based on prior experience related to the skills required for this position.”

Newell Brands (NASDAQ: NWL) is a leading global consumer goods company with a strong portfolio of well-known brands, including Rubbermaid, Sharpie, Graco, Coleman, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Yankee Candle, Paper Mate, FoodSaver, Dymo, EXPO, Elmer’s, Oster, NUK, Spontex and Campingaz. We are focused on delighting consumers by lighting up everyday moments. Newell Brands and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.