Construction Safety Manager

Position Overview

ISS is seeking a Construction Safety Manager to support a large-scale heavy civil and environmental restoration project in the Pajaro/Watsonville, CA area. This role will oversee safety operations on a complex infrastructure project involving levee construction, floodplain restoration, and channel improvements.

The Safety Manager will be responsible for ensuring full compliance with USACE EM385 standards, OSHA regulations, and overall site safety performance while supporting multiple trades in an active construction environment.

Project Scope

• Construction of 10 miles of setback levees
• Work along Pajaro River, Corralitos Creek, and Salsipuedes Creek
• Floodplain reconnection and channel improvements
• Utility relocations
• Habitat restoration and environmental mitigation
• Combination of earthwork, concrete work, and environmental construction

Key Responsibilities

Safety Oversight

• Lead implementation and enforcement of EM385-1-1 and OSHA safety standards
• Conduct daily site inspections, hazard assessments, and safety audits
• Monitor contractor compliance and ensure corrective actions are implemented
• Maintain accurate safety documentation and reporting

Field Operations

• Provide safety oversight for trades including carpenters, concrete masons, laborers, and equipment operators
• Support field activities across multiple work fronts within the project
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and incident investigations

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and site-specific safety requirements
• Coordinate with project leadership on safety performance and improvements
• Assist with audits and inspections as required

Required Qualifications

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of construction safety experience
• Strong background in heavy civil construction (earthwork, concrete, infrastructure)
• Experience working on USACE (Army Corps of Engineers) projects
• Proven ability to manage safety in a high-activity, multi-trade environment

Certifications (Mandatory)

• EM385-1-1 (USACE) compliance experience
• OSHA 30-Hour Certification
• One of the following BCSP certifications:
• CSP (Certified Safety Professional)
• CHST (Construction Health & Safety Technician)

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Safety, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred

Core Competencies

• Strong knowledge of federal construction safety standards (EM385)
• Ability to operate effectively in a field-intensive environment
• Clear communicator with strong leadership presence
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation and reporting skills
• Proactive, accountable, and safety-driven mindset

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay Rate: $50 /hour
• Per Diem: $150/day
• Overtime opportunities available

Work Environment & Requirements

• Project-based role with 60-hour work weeks on average
• Travel via personal vehicle required
• Standard PPE required (provided as needed)
• Computer/equipment provided for reporting and communication
• Background check required

Equal Employment Opportunity

ISS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with respect and fairness. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.