Safety Specialist

For over 90 years, Curran Contracting has been building the infrastructure that supports communities throughout the Midwest. As a leading heavy civil contractor, Curran self-performs site development, excavation, mass grading, underground utilities, soil modification, asphalt paving, and asphalt production, serving commercial, industrial, and government clients throughout Illinois and Indiana.

Curran operates from six locations across Illinois and Indiana, including Crystal Lake, DeKalb, Island Lake, Sycamore, Oswego, and Merrillville.

Our success is built on quality work, strong relationships, and our core values of Family, Respect, Partnership, Integrity, and Continuous Improvement.

The Safety Specialist serves as a key field partner responsible for implementing and supporting company-wide safety programs, training, and compliance efforts. This role provides consistent on-site presence, ensuring alignment between corporate safety initiatives and daily field execution. The Safety Specialist actively reinforces the company’s safety culture, coaches employees and subcontractors, and assists in the collection and analysis of safety data to drive continuous improvement across all operations.

• Model and promote Curran’s safety strategy, vision, and culture through consistent actions, communication, and leadership in the field.
• Partner with field and project teams to reinforce safe work practices and provide guidance on hazard recognition and mitigation.
• Conduct regular site inspections, audits, and observations; communicate findings and partner on corrective actions.
• Track, monitor, and analyze safety metrics to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Manage and maintain PPE inventories and other safety-related equipment to ensure readiness and availability.
• Support the development, rollout, and maintenance of written safety and compliance programs. Recommend updates and improvements as needed.
• Deliver and assist in the creation of safety training programs, including Toolbox Talks, Safety Flashes, and other safety communications.
• Coach employees and subcontractors on safe driving behaviors and monitor driver performance data to promote best-in-class standards.
• Participate in incident investigations for Workers’ Compensation, General Liability, and Auto Liability claims, ensuring thorough documentation and follow-up.
• Support the preparation and maintenance of safety records, reports, and data systems.
• Collaborate with and provide guidance to Safety Interns, supporting their development and understanding of Curran’s safety expectations and standards.

• Strong understanding of general construction safety principles, OSHA standards, and industry best practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and engage teams at all levels.
• Skilled in conducting inspections, documenting observations, and facilitating corrective actions.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and safety management systems.
• Demonstrated ability to build trust and credibility through consistent field presence and support.
• Capable of exercising sound judgement and discretion in sensitive situations.

• Bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety & Health, Environmental Health & Safety, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant safety experience in the construction industry considered.
• Minimum of 2-4 years of professional experience in safety, preferably within the construction industry.
• OSHA 30-Hour Construction certification required within 6 months of hire, if not…