Safety Engineer

Newport News, Virginia

Reporting to the Director, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), the Life Safety Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing and maintaining a fire prevention and life safety program within the Riverside Health System. The Life Safety Engineer is the subject matter expert for fire and life safety programs and regulations as set by the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, National Fire Protection Agency, Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH), Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services (CMS), local Authorities Having Jurisdiction, and other associated accreditation requirements.

Develops and implements appropriate fire and life safety programs (to include testing and maintenance programs), and facilitates necessary training and education. Conducts compliance inspections and audits to ensure a safe and healthful physical environment for building occupants. Functions as the primary RHS liaison with Authorities Having Jurisdiction, surveyors, and regulatory inspectors. Participates in the development and design of construction projects and renovations.

Possesses the ability to interpret and analyze life safety and building design drawings. Responds to emergency situations as required to provide expertise or consultation in response efforts. Takes the lead on all regulatory or accreditation surveys or audits related to fire prevention and life safety. Consistently maintains an image of professionalism, accepted ethical behavior, and optimum customer service within the Riverside Health System.

• Coordinates or delivers technical Fire and Life Safety training to identified RHS organizations and team members. Conducts training needs assessments, and follows through to establish training requirements for Divisions, Facilities, Departments, and Job Specialties.
• Uses logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems within fire and life safety programs. Identifies complex problems and reviews related information in order to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Provides practical guidance and expert advice to senior leaders, facility management, support service departments, or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics regarding fire and life safety.
• Designs, implements, and promotes Fire and Life Safety policies and programs. Identifies opportunities to continuously improve conditions by reviewing current RHS standards/programs and revising based on regulatory, accreditation, or best practice guidelines. Advises management, facility leaders, and other construction personnel on life safety and fire prevention codes, standard interpretations, and compliance.
• Uses relevant information and established requirements to determine whether events, processes, or conditions comply with laws, regulations, or accreditation standards. Prepares and writes reports detailing specific fire prevention and life safety issues and deficiencies. Successfully completes scheduled compliance inspections and internal audits within RHS.
• Acquires and maintains relevant professional certifications. Participates in continuing education activities that benefit the organization and enhance professional knowledge. Seeks involvement with professional / civic / service organizations that align with the Mission, Vision, and Commitments of Riverside Health System.

• Bachelors Degree, Fire Science, Engineering, Management, Healthcare or related field (Required)

• 5-6 years Fire and Life Safety in healthcare, or similar experience (Required)
• 2 years Supervisor/Manager experience (Preferred)

• Certified Life Safety Specialist for Health Care Facility Managers (CLSS‑HC) - National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) within 1 Year (Required)
• Certified Life Safety Specialist for Health Care Facility Managers (CLSS‑HC) - National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) (Preferred)
• Valid Drivers License (Required)