Safety Manager

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Safety Manager to lead all health and safety initiatives at our medium to large sized, unionized manufacturing facility in Bardstown, Kentucky. This position is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining safety programs that ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while fostering a strong culture of safety throughout the organization.

The Safety Manager will provide leadership for two direct reports and partner closely with plant leadership, supervisors, and employees to drive continuous improvement in workplace safety, risk reduction, and regulatory compliance. This role is fully onsite, there is no remote work option.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the multi-building manufacturing facility's safety and health programs.
• Supervise, coach, and develop two direct reports within the Health and Safety function.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable OSHA and state regulatory requirements.
• Develop, implement, and maintain safety policies, procedures, and training programs.
• Conduct routine safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments throughout the facility.
• Investigate workplace incidents, near misses, and injuries to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Track and report key safety metrics, including incident rates, corrective actions, and compliance activities.
• Facilitate safety committee meetings and promote employee engagement in safety initiatives.
• Lead emergency preparedness and response programs, including drills and training exercises.
• Partner with operations, maintenance, engineering, and human resources teams to ensure safety is integrated into all business processes.
• Maintain regulatory records and prepare documentation for inspections and audits.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing workplace hazards and improving overall safety performance.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health & Safety, Engineering, Industrial Hygiene, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive safety experience and at least 5 years as a Manager in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations and safety management systems.
• Experience conducting incident investigations, root cause analyses, and corrective action planning.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing employees.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Associate Safety Professional (ASP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or similar certification.
• Experience within food, consumer products, packaging, automotive, chemical, or other industrial manufacturing environments.
• Experience implementing behavior-based safety programs and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Knowledge of environmental compliance programs and regulations.

Key Success Factors

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence employees at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to build and sustain a culture where safety is a core value.
• Proactive problem solver with strong analytical skills.
• Results-oriented mindset focused on continuous improvement.
• Ability to balance regulatory compliance with operational effectiveness.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary of $130,000 - $145,000
• Insurance coverage effective immediately after hire
• PTO/Retirement Plan/Paid Holidays
• Relocation assistance is available