Safety Coordinator

About High-Light Electric, Inc.

High-Light Electric, Inc. (HLE, Inc.) is a California-based, family-owned union electrical infrastructure contractor founded in 1996. For nearly three decades we have been delivering complex public works and electrical construction across the state - highway lighting, roadway signalization, fiber optic systems, airport lighting, CCTV installations, overhead power transmission lines, and pump plant equipment.

We operate as both general contractor and subcontractor on multi-million dollar public agency projects, partnering with Caltrans, municipalities, transit authorities, and infrastructure programs throughout California. Our crews self-perform the majority of our work - a reflection of the discipline, skill, and ownership mentality we bring to every project.

In 2025, HLE was recognized on the Inc. Regionals Pacific list - #116 - a recognition of our growth, operational strength, and the team that makes it possible.

HLE is part of the Mendoza Companies ecosystem - a growing platform of businesses guided by a mission to connect 1,000 families and communities through business by 2040. When you join HLE, you are not just taking a job. You are joining a mission.

The Role

The Safety Coordinator is HLE's on-site safety authority - responsible for owning, enforcing, and continuously improving the company's safety program across all active construction projects.

This is a field leadership role, not a support function. You will ensure compliance with Cal/OSHA regulations, Caltrans construction specifications, and Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations on every project, every day.

You will work closely with project managers, field crews, subcontractors, and agency representatives from project setup through closeout. This role reports to the Area Operations Manager and offers a defined growth path to Safety Manager based on performance.

The field will test you. Schedules will create pressure. Situations will demand calm when others bring chaos. If you are the kind of person who holds the line when it is hard, leads with steadiness under fire, and takes pride in a job done right - this role was built for you.

What You'll Do

• Own, develop, enforce, and continuously update the Site-Specific Safety Program (SSSP) on every active project from setup through closeout.

• Conduct daily field safety inspections and weekly safety meetings - document findings and drive corrective action in real time.

• Manage all project safety submittals, credentials, and compliance records on time per Caltrans contract requirements.

• Review subcontractor work plans before work begins; lead pre-planning for all high-hazard activities including confined space, excavations, crane operations, and high-pressure systems.

• Report all incidents and near misses immediately to the Engineer of Record and HLE leadership; lead investigations and implement corrective action through to verified closure.

• Deliver new worker site orientations on every project for every worker - no exceptions.

• Issue written safety notices for non-compliance; maintain a field consequence log documenting all violations and resolutions.

• Maintain accurate, current, and audit-ready safety records in Procore, Vista, and all required compliance platforms.

• Coordinate safety training and certification programs for field personnel and subcontractors.

• Stay current with Cal/OSHA regulations, Caltrans specifications, and 8 CCR requirements - communicate relevant updates to field teams and management.

Required Qualifications

• Current and active professional safety certification - CSP or CHST strongly preferred. Equivalent BCSP or NASP certifications considered with leadership approval. Must be valid and verifiable at time of application. First Aid, CPR, and OSHA training cards do not qualify.

• Cal/OSHA 30-Hour (Construction Industry) or OSHA 510 - required as a Caltrans contractual submittal. Must be current.

• Minimum 3 years of direct, hands-on safety experience in heavy construction, heavy civil, heavy industrial, or oil and energy sectors.

• Fluent in English and Spanish (spoken, read, and written)

• Current First Aid and CPR certification

• Confined Space Entry and Fall Protection training (must be obtained within the first 30 days of employment; company support may be provided)

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation insurable under HLE's commercial auto policy.
• Valid California Driver's License (Class C required, Class A preferred). Must be insurable under our commercial auto policy.

Preferred:

• Prior Caltrans or California public works project experience as the primary safety representative.

• Working familiarity with Procore and Vista/Viewpoint for safety documentation.

• Experience with traffic control documentation and highway construction safety environments.

Work Environment & Expectations

This role is performed primarily in the field on active construction sites throughout California. Work may take place in varying conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, dust, nighttime…