Safety Specialist

About Columbia Energy

Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business providing engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and other specialized services. We support both federal and commercial clients and have built a strong reputation for delivering practical, high-quality solutions on complex projects.

Our work supports both government and commercial customers and includes engineering, fabrication, testing, and field services. With operations in Richland, Washington and Idaho Falls, Idaho, our team works in environments where safety, quality, and accountability are essential to project success.

As a growing company, we value employees who are practical, proactive, and willing to work closely with teams across all levels of the organization.

Why Join Columbia Energy?

At Columbia Energy, safety is a core part of how we operate. This position plays a key role in helping maintain a safe work environment across our fabrication, manufacturing, and project operations.

The Safety Specialist works closely with employees, supervisors, and leadership to support compliance efforts, promote safe work practices, and continuously improve our safety culture. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working in a hands-on industrial environment.

Position Overview

Columbia Energy is seeking a Safety Specialist to support and coordinate safety programs across our operations. This position is responsible for helping ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, conducting inspections, supporting employee training, investigating incidents, and assisting with the development and implementation of safety initiatives.

The ideal candidate is organized, self-motivated, and comfortable working directly with employees in fabrication, manufacturing, and field environments. The ability to build positive working relationships while promoting accountability and safe work practices is critical to success in this role.

Essential Responsibilities & Duties

• Coordinate and support company safety programs and initiatives
• Assist with implementation and administration of safety policies and procedures
• Conduct facility, equipment, and jobsite inspections to ensure regulatory compliance
• Evaluate work processes and identify opportunities to reduce risk and improve safety performance
• Investigate employee safety concerns and hazardous conditions and recommend corrective actions
• Provide technical guidance and support on safety-related matters
• Deliver and coordinate safety training for employees
• Assist with Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) development and training efforts
• Promote employee engagement and participation in safety programs
• Support managers and supervisors in maintaining safe work practices
• Investigate accidents, injuries, near misses, and safety incidents
• Document findings and assist with implementation of corrective actions
• Maintain required safety records and reporting documentation
• Coordinate OSHA 300 log administration and related reporting requirements
• Support EMR tracking and safety performance reporting
• Manage Safety Data Sheet (SDS) records and documentation
• Track personal protective equipment (PPE) inventories and usage
• Assist with waste tracking and environmental reporting requirements
• Perform equipment and safety-related inspections as needed
• Attend AGC safety meetings and maintain awareness of industry best practices
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of one (1) year of safety-related experience in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, or a related industry
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and general workplace safety practices
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and other standard business software
• Current CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain certification upon hire
• Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug screen
• Proof of U.S. citizenship due to government contract requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health & Safety, Industrial Technology, or a related field
• Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST), or similar certification
• Experience in welding, fabrication, manufacturing, or industrial environments
• Experience conducting safety training and incident investigations

Key Success Attributes

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build positive working relationships with employees and leadership
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities
• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently
• Practical problem-solving skills and sound judgment
• Positive attitude and team-oriented approach

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and climbing
• Frequent use of hands and arms for reaching, handling, and operating equipment
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work at heights, climb ladders, use man lifts, and work on elevated structures while utilizing fall protection equipment
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment including hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirators, gloves, safety vests, and work boots
• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to varying temperatures and weather conditions

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
• Company-paid life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid time off and company holidays
• 401(k) plan with company match

Equal Opportunity Employer

Columbia Energy is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.