Safety Manager- Vegetation

Safety Manager
- Vegetation

The Safety Manager - Vegetation is responsible for leading and managing all safety initiatives within the vegetation management division. This position develops, implements, and continuously improves safety programs that support line clearance vegetation management operations while ensuring compliance with OSHA, ANSI, DOT, utility client requirements, and company safety standards. The Safety Manager partners with operations leadership to promote a culture of safety excellence, reduce workplace risks, investigate incidents, develop training programs, and ensure employees possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform work safely and efficiently.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Vegetation Division's safety program, policies, and procedures.
• Conduct regular field audits, job site evaluations, and crew observations to identify hazards and ensure compliance with company and regulatory safety requirements.
• Partner with Operations Managers, General Foremen, Foremen, and field personnel to proactively address safety concerns and improve safe work practices.
• Manage employee qualification, certification, and competency verification programs.
• Develop, coordinate, and deliver safety training programs, including onboarding, recurring certifications, and regulatory compliance training.
• Research, develop, and present safety-related training materials for employee meetings and leadership sessions.
• Lead incident, near miss, vehicle accident, and injury investigations, including root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
• Track, analyze, and report safety performance metrics, trends, and corrective action plans.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, ANSI Z133, DOT, NFPA, utility client requirements, and company policies.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for vegetation management safety practices, including line clearance tree trimming and arboricultural operations.
• Conduct and maintain records for CPR/First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens, Bucket Rescue, Tree Canopy Rescue, Defensive Driving, Hazard Communication, and DOT-related training.
• Assist with emergency response efforts, storm restoration activities, and post-storm safety oversight.
• Participate in operational planning and risk assessments for special projects and high-risk work activities.
• Collaborate with Human Resources, Operations, Fleet, and other departments to support company safety goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety, Safety Management, Forestry, Arboriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in line clearance vegetation management, utility operations, safety management, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience leading safety programs in vegetation management, utility, forestry, or construction environments preferred.
• Experience conducting incident investigations and developing corrective action plans.
• Experience developing and delivering training programs for field personnel.
• Project management experience preferred.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of line clearance vegetation management operations and utility corridor maintenance.
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations, ANSI Z133 standards, DOT regulations, NFPA standards, and utility industry safety requirements.
• Knowledge of overhead electrical hazards, minimum approach distances, and utility right-of-way operations.
• Strong leadership, coaching, mentoring, and employee development skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Advanced conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and communicate safety performance data.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and safety reporting systems.
• Ability to work independently while effectively managing multiple priorities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to process improvement.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment.
• Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and accountability.

Preferred

Certifications:

• Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP).
• ISA Certified Arborist.
• OSHA 30-Hour Certification.
• Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Associate Safety Professional (ASP).
• CPR/First Aid/AED Instructor or current certification.
• Qualified Trainer in Bucket Rescue, Tree Canopy Rescue, Defensive Driving, Hazard Communication, and Bloodborne Pathogens.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in field environments with frequent travel to crew locations, utility rights-of-way, and customer worksites.
• Daily travel using a company vehicle is required.
• May require overnight travel.
• Must be able to work outdoors in varying terrain and weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and storm-related environments.
• May be required to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays…