What are the responsibilities and job description for the Site Safety Manager (SSM) position at Polk?
SCOPE OF WORK:
The Site Safety Manager (SSM) serves as the primary onsite safety leader assigned to a specific project. Working closely with the project management team, the SSM is responsible for planning, directing, implementing, and sustaining Polk Mechanical’s safety efforts at the jobsite level.
This role focuses on daily field engagement, hazard identification, coaching, risk reduction strategies, safety training, documentation, and coordination with general contractors and subcontractors. The SSM supports Polk Mechanical’s goal of reducing risk, ensuring compliance, and strengthening the safety culture across mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, sheet metal, and welding operations. This scope is not limited to the activities listed below and may expand based on project requirements, regulatory changes, or client expectations.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordinate with project supervision to implement safety protocols at all levels of the jobsite.
- Ensure GC, Polk, and regulatory safety expectations are clearly communicated and executed.
- Support integration of safety planning into daily work activities.
- Conduct regular safety assessments and jobsite walks.
- Identify hazards, document findings, and recommend corrective actions.
- Verify corrective actions are completed in a timely manner.
- Communicate frequently with the Regional Safety Manager regarding incidents, corrective actions, and high-risk activities.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the SMS or other assigned systems.
- Provide coaching, guidance, and mentorship to field personnel and Safety personnel.
- Model Polk Mechanical’s safety culture through visibility, accountability, and professionalism.
- Participate in project safety committees, pre-task planning, and coordination meetings.
- Attend GC and/or any meetings onsite and represent Polk Mechanical professionally.
- Support safety planning and execution for shutdowns, commissioning, live system tie-ins, and other high-risk work.
- Review PATH/JHA forms and high-risk permits including but not limited to hot work, confined space, and lift plans.
- Lead or support incident and near-miss investigations.
- Assist supervision with required reports and corrective action plans.
- Deliver or coordinate site-specific safety orientations, toolbox talks, and task-based training.
- Maintain accurate training records and sign-in sheets.
- Identify unsafe conditions or behaviors requiring immediate correction.
- Exercise stop-work authority when necessary to prevent injury.
- Interact professionally with general contractors, owners, client representatives, and other trades.
- Provide input toward improvements of Polk Mechanical safety programs, policies, and training materials.
- Utilize safety monitoring equipment such as air monitors and sound meters as required.
- Document and communicate results as needed.
- Lead or assist with recurring safety meetings, field coaching sessions, and engagement activities.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Knowledge of construction operations including mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, sheet metal, and welding preferred.
- Understanding of federal, state, and local safety regulations.
- Valid driver’s license meeting company requirements.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to coach, mentor, and influence field personnel.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to safety.
- Ability to perform jobsite walks, access elevations, and work in active construction environments.
- Proficiency with computers and safety reporting platforms (Excel, Procore/SMS).
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
CERTIFICATIONS / EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:
- OSHA 30/OSHA 500 required; CHST, CSHO or SHEP preferred
- High School diploma or GED required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety & Health or related field preferred
- 5–10 years of construction safety or related experience preferred
PROMOTES FROM:
- Safety Coordinator (SC)
PROMOTES TO:
- Regional Safety Manager (RSM)