Safety Manager

Location: Chicagoland (onsite present in our Chicago office required)

Travel: Frequent national travel

About Novak Construction

Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Chicago, Novak Construction is a premier national general contractor and construction management firm. We specialize in delivering complex, high-profile projects across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, industrial, and cold storage. Our commitment to excellence, safety, and client satisfaction drives our reputation as a trusted partner in the construction industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the implementation and enforcement of Novak Construction’s Safety Program across all projects.
• Conduct jobsite inspections and audits to identify hazards, ensure compliance, and recommend corrective actions.
• Deliver new hire safety orientations and training sessions for field staff and subcontractors.
• Maintain all safety-related documentation, including logs, inspection reports, training records, and incident reports.
• Lead investigations of accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions. Develop reports and recommend follow-up measures.
• Work in partnership with Project Managers, Superintendents, and Subcontractors to proactively identify and resolve safety issues.
• Ensure all OSHA regulations and company policies are followed and enforced consistently.
• Support project teams in developing job-specific safety plans and performing Job Safety Audits (JSAs).
• Maintain an understanding of industry trends, best practices, and changing safety regulations.
• Participate in weekly site meetings and communicate safety expectations to crews.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for safety audits and interactions with regulatory agencies.
• Experienced in DOT regulations and Drug Testing and CDL compliance.
• Familiar with NPDES Permit requirements and have a CESSWI Certificate or equivalent.
• Understanding of Industry Building Code and Quality Control Standards and Assurance Compliance.
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of field safety experience in commercial construction environments.
• Frequent travel required (3-5 days a week)
• Onsite presence in our Chicago office required
• B.S. in Occupational Health & Safety, Construction Management, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• OSHA 30 certification required; CHST, STS, or other safety credentials a plus.
• OSHA “Train the Trainer” Certificate and Industrial Hygiene Certificate are a plus.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations, safety management systems, and hazard prevention strategies.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and documentation.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence and train others.
• Ability to conduct effective incident investigations and develop root cause analyses.
• Self-starter with a proactive approach to promoting a culture of safety.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and safety reporting tools.
• Must be willing to travel to various job sites; nationwide travel is required.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Weekly allowances for auto, fuel and mobile phone.
• Per diem while traveling, in accordance with GSA rates.
• Travel home every other weekend covered or reimbursed.
  
  

Equal Opportunity Employer

Novak Construction provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.