Safety Specialist

Human Resources announces an opening for a 1.0 FTE Safety Specialist. This is a 260-day, scale M-13 position located at Facilities & Operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK

(This list is not exhaustive and represents a range of duties typically associated with the position. Similar or related tasks may also be assigned.)

· Plans and executes routine and ad hoc inspections of facilities, work sites, practices, and equipment to identify and mitigate hazards affecting employees, contractors, students, and community users.

· Ensures compliance with safety regulations and standards related to occupational health, fire prevention, hazardous materials handling, and specialized instructional spaces.

· Conducts required inspections and internal audits to verify adherence to safety protocols across APS facilities and programs.

· Delivers presentations and advises management on regulatory compliance and recommended best practices.

· Oversees daily operations of APS workplace and educational safety initiatives.

· Documents inspection findings, cites relevant codes, and proposes corrective actions and timelines. Recommends closures or stop-work orders when imminent life safety risks are identified.

· Develops and implements strategies to eliminate or reduce safety hazards and resolve deficiencies. Conducts follow-up inspections to confirm remediation.

· Investigates complaints, accidents, injuries, and property damage to determine root causes and prevent recurrence.

· Prepares detailed reports and recommends preventive measures. Maintains safety-related databases, records, and the online SDS library.

· Analyzes safety data and contributes to the development and refinement of program goals and objectives.

· Participates in committees (e.g., VARC) and provides expert guidance on emerging safety standards, regulatory updates, and industry best practices.

· Facilitates or monitors safety training programs. Assesses effectiveness and helps design specialized instruction to meet federal, state, and APS requirements.

· Maintains current knowledge of safety trends and regulatory changes impacting APS.

· Communicates effectively with staff and stakeholders, actively listening to concerns and promoting consensus and compliance.

· Utilizes various computer software tools for scheduling, communication, data analysis, reporting, budgeting, and specialized safety functions.

· Travels regularly to APS sites to conduct assessments, deliver training, respond to incidents, and support safety operations.

· Performs additional duties as needed to support APS safety programs.

EXPERIENCE:

· Demonstrated expertise in applying workplace and school safety principles across diverse environments, including construction sites, office settings, and educational facilities.

· Strong working knowledge of key safety regulations and standards, including OSHA, VOSH, EPA, NFPA, ANSI, and NIOSH guidelines. Familiarity with Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and Arlington Public Schools (APS) safety policies and procedures is preferred; some knowledge may be acquired on the job.

· Experience in related fields such as risk management and workers’ compensation, with the ability to assess and mitigate safety risks effectively.

· Proven ability to develop and deliver safety training programs tailored to both adult and adolescent learners, using sound instructional methods and engaging content.

· Understanding of workplace operations and occupational hazards across a broad range of roles, including skilled trades and labor positions, with the ability to identify violations and recommend practical solutions.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey safety information clearly and professionally.

· Strong interpersonal skills to build effective working relationships and collaborate with staff, leadership, and external partners in a customer service-oriented manner.

· Proficiency in using modern office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite), enterprise systems, and specialized safety platforms for data management, reporting, and compliance tracking QUALIFICATIONS:

MINIMUM EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

1. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

2. Demonstrated experience in:

a. Conducting on-site safety inspections in institutional settings.

b. Investigating and reporting safety incidents in compliance with regulations.

c. Delivering safety training across various hazard categories.

d. Developing or revising safety policies and procedures.

3. Strong knowledge of OSHA, VOSH, EPA, NFPA, ANSI, NIOSH, VDOE, and APS safety standards (some may be acquired on the job).

4. Familiarity with risk management and workers’ compensation practices.

5. Understanding of adult and adolescent learning principles for effective safety instruction.

6. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, enterprise systems, and specialized safety software.

7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong interpersonal and customer service orientation.

8. Preferred Certifications

a. Certified Playground Inspector (Intermediate level or higher) — required within two years of hire.

b. Associate Safety Professional (ASP) or Certified Safety Professional (CSP) — required within two years of hire.

c. Certified Fire Inspector (NFPA 1031) via Virginia Fire Marshal Academy — ability to obtain within two years of hire.

Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in the School Board Policy 35-4.4, that employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, pregnancy status, veteran status, gender identity or expression, and/or disability.