RCI-NYPA-1484 EHS Specialist

Work Schedule: Monday through Friday. 7.5-hour workday with a hybrid schedule of a minimum of 3 days on-site, up to including fully on-site depending on department requirements.

Project Overview

• The EHS Specialist will provide direct, field-based Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) support to Canal Sections 1 and 2 (Waterford and Fort Edward – in up State New York).
• This role is responsible for supporting the implementation and execution of EHS programs at the operational level, working closely with Canal operations and maintenance personnel to ensure work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable requirements.
• This is a field-driven position requiring frequent presence at canal structures, maintenance facilities, and active job sites.
• The EHS Specialist will partner with supervisors and employees to translate EHS requirements into practical, work-ready solutions that support safe and effective

Job Functions & Responsibilities

Field EHS Support & Program Implementation

• Provide day-to-day EHS support to Canal operations and maintenance teams
• Assist with implementation of EHS programs, procedures, and safe work practices
• Conduct field observations, job site visits, and informal audits
• Support pre-job planning efforts, including job briefings and hazard identification
• Identify hazards and work with field personnel to implement practical solutions Operational Integration
• Work closely with supervisors and employees to integrate EHS requirements into routine work activities
• Provide real-time guidance during active work to support safe execution
• Support planning and execution of higher-risk activities (e.g., maintenance work, confined/enclosed spaces, work over water)
• Reinforce safe behaviors and organizational safety expectations Incident Management
• Support incident reporting, investigation, and follow-up actions
• Assist in identifying root causes and contributing factors
• Track and support completion of corrective actions
• Promote reporting of near misses and unsafe conditions Regulatory Compliance
• Support compliance with applicable regulations and internal requirements
• Assist with inspections, audits, and related follow-up actions
• Help ensure required documentation and records are maintained at the site level Administrative & Program Support
• Maintain site-level EHS records, reports, and documentation
• Support distribution and accessibility of procedures, forms, and guidance materials
• Assist with tracking of metrics, corrective actions, and program activities
• Coordinate with EHS leadership on implementation needs

Required Qualifications

• Strong ability to work independently in field environments
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with operational personnel
• Working knowledge of OSHA/PESH-based safety principles
• Valid New York State driver’s license
• Strong field presence and ability to build trust with operations teams
• Practical hazard recognition and problem-solving skills
• Ability to translate requirements into clear, actionable practices
• Strong organizational and follow-up skills
• Adaptability in dynamic, outdoor work environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in utilities, public infrastructure, construction, or heavy industrial environments
• Experience supporting higher-risk work activities (e.g., confined space, lockout/tagout, fall protection)
• Experience supporting incident investigations and corrective action tracking
• Familiarity with EHS reporting or work management systems

Education & Certifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health & Safety, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 1–3 years of experience supporting or implementing EHS programs in an industrial, construction, utility, or field-based environment