Health and Safety Officer

This position is responsible for managing and overseeing all aspects of safety for Energy Support Services (ESS) operations and maintenance activities and general New Energy Equity (NEE) Safety oversight. The Health and Safety Officer will ensure that all field operations are conducted in strict compliance with OSHA regulations, industry best practices, and company safety protocols. This role requires a deep understanding of OSHA workplace safety regulations, utility connected solar PV and BESS systems, hazardous energy control, and hazard mitigation strategies.

The Health and Safety Officer will work closely with technicians, subcontractors, and management to create and maintain a safe working environment for all aspects of NEE and ESS operations. The role is also responsible for managing broader NEE safety programs and culture, including interfacing with the ALLETE Safety team.  This position is based out of our Annapolis, Maryland office or our Roseville, Minnesota office.  The current requirement is a minimum of three days per week in office;  however that may well change to five days at any time. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• • A bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety or a related field.
  • Five years of Professional experience.
  • Specific training and certifications: Board of Certified Safety Professionals Certified Safety Professional (CSP) Certificate and OSHA 30 Certificate are required; National Fire Protection Association Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional (CESCP) Certificate is preferred.
  • Minimum of 5 years utility or industrial electrical safety experience.
  • Previous management experience preferred

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Safety Program Development & Implementation:

• • Oversee, implement, and maintain comprehensive safety program for all field-based Solar O&M activities.
  • Ensure that Energy Support Services (ESS) and New Energy Equity (NEE) safety programs are current with and adhere to all applicable OSHA regulations and industry best practices.
  • Develop and deliver safety training programs for employees covering topics such as lockout/tagout procedures, electrical safety, fall protection, and other safety related matters, such as: CPR, first aid, arc flash, lifting & rigging, mobile equipment, safe driving, and firefighting.
  • Maintain and manage ESS Safety rating in contractor qualification systems, including Veriforce, Avetta, and ISNetworld.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive safety program for all in-office ESS and NEE personnel.
  • Analyze safety performance trends and other safety data.
  • Collaborate with ESS leadership to develop and implement training programs, initiatives, or technological solutions to improve safety performance and prevent future incidents.
  • Prepare and deliver quarterly safety updates to the NEE Board on NEE/ESS safety statistics and initiatives, including the creation and submission of a PowerPoint presentation.
  • Conduct safety training for all new ESS and NEE employees.
  • Maintain up-to-date training materials for new employees, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and ALLETE requirements/recommendations.

Site Safety Inspections & Audits:

• • Conduct periodic safety inspections and audits of O&M field activity to assess potential hazards and ensure proper safety protocols are being practiced.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of existing safety controls and recommend improvements.
  • Ensure that all proper safety equipment and PPE  is available, in proper working order, and technicians are properly trained in its use.

Risk Management & Mitigation:

• • Proactively identify and assess potential safety hazards associated with electrical solar O&M activities.
  • Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to ensure ESS does not experience safety incidents and achieves zero OSHA recordables.
  • Oversee the implementation and execution of Human Performance Improvement program

Incident Investigation & Reporting:

• • Lead investigations of all safety incidents and near-misses.
  • Identify root causes and contributing factors.
  • Develop corrective actions to prevent recurrence and revise Standard Operating Procedures to reflect lessons learned.
  • Maintain accurate records and prepare reports for management.

Subcontractor Safety Management:

• • Oversee the safety performance of subcontractors working on ESS approved work.
  • Ensure that subcontractors have appropriate safety programs and training in place.
  • Conduct regular safety observations with subcontractors , address concerns, and promote a shared safety culture.

Safety Communication & Training:

• • Communicate regularly with technicians, subcontractors, and management regarding safety performance, concerns, and best practices.
  • Deliver safety training and toolbox talks to reinforce safety protocols and address emerging hazards.
  • Deliver periodic safety briefings and trainings. May include weekly, quarterly, or annual presentations both electronic and  in-person.
  • Promote a strong safety culture through consistent communication and engagement.
  • Develop and Share lessons learned to prevent future incidents.

Specific Skills:

• • Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial to convey safety procedures, conduct training, and interact with employees and management.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Identifying safety hazards, investigating incidents, and developing solutions requires strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Project Leadership: Excels in planning, organizing, and managing resources to achieve project objectives.
  • Highly motivated individual with ability to effectively communicate up and down the organizational structure.
  • Excellent computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications for tasks such as data entry, report generation, and presentations.

Employer Will Not Sponsor Visas For This Position

The expected annual compensation range for this position is $80,000 - $100,000, encompassing base pay and potential incentive target opportunity. This range is a good faith estimate based on the position's requirements. Specific compensation offered to the selected candidate may vary depending on factors such as relevant knowledge, skills, training, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, this position may qualify for a comprehensive benefits package, including Retirement Benefits, Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance and Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences, and more.

About Us:

At New Energy Equity, a proud subsidiary of ALLETE, we’re leading the charge in transforming the energy landscape with innovative solar solutions 🌞. As a top player in the renewable energy sector, we’ve successfully developed over 600MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments 💼. Our projects deliver sustainable electricity to a wide range of clients, including commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers 🌍. But there’s more to us than just impressive numbers. We pride ourselves on a dynamic and engaging work environment where teamwork, continuous learning, and environmental stewardship are at the core of what we do 🌿. Our inclusive and collaborative culture encourages creativity and innovation, making our office a place where every idea is valued, and growth is a priority 💡. At New Energy Equity, you’ll join a passionate team that not only drives the clean energy future but also enjoys celebrating our successes together 🎉. With over 250 projects across the U.S. 🌎, our supportive atmosphere ensures a balanced work-life dynamic ⚖️ and a fun, fulfilling career path 🌟. Join us and be part of a forward-thinking company where your contributions are celebrated, and your professional development is supported as we work towards a brighter, sustainable future 🌍.

The statements above outline the essential functions, nature, and level of work expected as of the document’s preparation date. They are not exhaustive lists of all duties and responsibilities. New Energy Equity reserves the right to modify this job description at any time, without notice.

New Energy Equity is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for employment, contact our HR department at amekonnen@newenergyequity.com