Site Safety & Health Officer; SSHO

Job Title:

Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO)

Location:

Lexington, KY

Start Date:

March 2, 2026

Employment Type:

1099 Contractor

Duration: 2-Year Project Assignment

• Rate: $54 to $58 per hour
• Per Diem:
  Not available (Local candidates strongly preferred)
• Pay Frequency:
  Weekly

• Hours:
  
  Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week
• Additional Work:
  Occasional overtime as project demands

This role provides full-time on-site safety leadership for a federal new-build construction project at the USDA Forage-Animal Production Research Unit in Lexington, KY. The Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO) will partner closely with project management, field supervision, and federal stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with EM 385-1-1 standards, proactive hazard mitigation, and continuous safety performance improvement throughout the project lifecycle.

• Provide comprehensive site safety oversight in accordance with EM 385-1-1 and federal project requirements
• Conduct daily, documented safety inspections, audits, and hazard assessments
• Lead new hire orientations, toolbox talks, and site-specific safety training
• Monitor subcontractor compliance and enforce corrective actions when necessary
• Investigate incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions, implementing preventive measures
• Maintain accurate digital and written safety documentation and reports
• Coordinate closely with project leadership, contractors, and federal inspectors
• Promote a strong, visible, and accountable safety culture on site

• EM 385-1-1 Certification (Mandatory)
• Minimum 10 years of relevant construction safety experience
• Proven experience working on federal or government-regulated projects Experience and Credentials

  Candidates Must Meet One Of The Following Qualification Paths

  Option 1
  • EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)
  • 10+ Years Relevant Experience
  • BCSP Certification (STSC, CHST, CSP, or Equivalent)
  Option 2
  • EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)
  • 10+ Years Relevant Experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Safety or Related Field
  Option 3
  • EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)
  • 10+ Years Relevant Experience
  • OSHA 500 Authorized Trainer
  Technical Skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • Experience with digital safety management and reporting platforms
  • Strong documentation and recordkeeping capabilities
  • Ability to utilize mobile and cloud-based compliance systems
  Equal Opportunity Employer

  We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.

  Salary: $54 - $58 per hour