What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager, Process Safety position at LG Energy Solution Michigan, Inc.?
Title: Manager, Process Safety
Reports to: EH&S
Location: Holland, MI
LG Energy Solution Michigan Inc. (LGESMI) develops and manufactures large lithium ion polymer batteries and packs for electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage applications. Come join the leader in advanced EV batteries!
Summary:
The Process Safety Part Leader (Manager) is responsible for developing and managing safety programs critical to lithium-ion battery manufacturing operations. This role oversees Process Safety Management (PSM), permitting systems, construction and contractor safety, high-risk equipment management, and safety planning for production and facility expansion projects. The position ensures regulatory compliance, mitigates high-hazard risks such as thermal runaway, chemical exposure, and equipment failures, and supports safe and reliable plant operations.
Responsibilities:
- Spearhead the implementation, ongoing management, and continuous improvement of Process Safety Management (PSM) programs applicable to battery manufacturing processes
- Maintain safety documentation, SOPs, and engineering controls relevant to battery production hazards.
- Oversee safety programs for high-risk equipment and Develop inspection, testing, and preventive maintenance standards with engineering and maintenance teams
- Manage permit-to-work programs: hot work, electrical work, confined space entry, LOTO, contractor permits, and etc.
- Lead annual and long-term EH&S planning, including risk management programs, incident response strategies, and departmental improvement projects.
- Manage construction safety for capital expansion, equipment installation, and infrastructure projects.
- Oversee contractor qualification, onboarding, orientation, and field audits to ensure compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
- Coordinate daily and weekly construction safety meetings during major projects.
- Manage safety data, metrics, and dashboards; track KPIs and generate regular compliance and performance reports.
- Develop and deliver training programs on PSM, contractor safety, permits, equipment safety, and emergency procedures.
- Assist in emergency response planning and conduct tabletop or field drills with relevant teams.
- Support internal and external regulatory audits and ensure timely closure of findings.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen operational safety culture across the plant.
- Maintain cleanliness at work-site in accordance with 5S3R Standards:
- Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain
- Right Location, Right Quantity, Right Container
- Follow LGESMI existing cleaning SOP’s during downtime (e.g. line stop, waiting time, etc.), which includes cleaning your designated machine and/or surrounding work area
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Environmental Health & Safety, or related field.
- Strong knowledge of lithium-ion battery manufacturing hazards, including NMP, thermal runaway risks, and Electrolyte handling and storage.
- Deep understanding of OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and chemical safety regulations applicable to battery production.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, ventilation diagrams, and safety interlock systems.
- Strong leadership and communication skills for cross-functional coordination.
Experience:
- 5–10 years of EH&S or process safety experience in battery manufacturing, chemical processing, or high-hazard manufacturing industry.
- Hands-on experience managing PSM elements such as MOC, PHA/HAZOP, PSSR, and mechanical integrity.
- Experience with large-scale construction or factory expansion projects is highly preferred.
- Previous leadership or supervisory experience managing EH&S or technical safety teams.
- Experience with emergency response for industrial chemical or thermal incidents preferred.
Skills:
- Proven leadership skills
- Expertise in hazard identification for chemical, mechanical, and electrical systems.
- Strong risk assessment and analytical abilities
- Capability to lead cross-functional meetings and influence at the engineering and plant management level.
- Proficiency with EH&S management systems, safety auditing tools, and incident investigation methods
- Strong documentation, reporting, and program development skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills