Senior Environmental Health & Safety Specialist

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Specialist to join their team, serving the Richmond, Virginia, US area. This role is crucial for ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local EHS regulations, as well as upholding the company's commitment to a safe and healthy working environment. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of EHS principles, risk assessment, incident investigation, and the development and implementation of EHS programs. You will be instrumental in fostering a proactive safety culture throughout the organization. Primary Responsibilities: Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive EHS programs and policies to ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulatory bodies. Conduct regular site inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and ensure adherence to safety protocols. Investigate workplace incidents, accidents, and near-misses; determine root causes and recommend corrective actions. Develop and deliver EHS training to employees at all levels, covering topics such as hazard communication, lockout/tagout, emergency preparedness, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Manage the company's hazardous waste program, ensuring proper disposal and record-keeping. Oversee the company's emergency response plan and conduct drills. Maintain EHS records and documentation, including permits, licenses, and regulatory filings. Stay current with evolving EHS legislation and best practices, recommending updates to company policies and procedures as needed. Collaborate with department managers and supervisors to integrate EHS principles into daily operations. Promote a strong safety culture through communication, engagement, and visible leadership. Assist in the development and implementation of industrial hygiene monitoring programs. Manage contractor safety pre-qualification and oversight. Prepare and submit required EHS reports to regulatory agencies. Lead EHS committee meetings and initiatives. Drive continuous improvement in EHS performance through data analysis and trend identification. A Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health & Safety, Occupational Health, Industrial Hygiene, or a related scientific field is required. A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in EHS management is necessary. Professional certifications such as CIH, CSP, or CHMM are highly desirable. Strong knowledge of relevant regulations (OSHA, EPA) and industry best practices is essential. Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills are a must. The ability to influence and engage employees at all levels is critical. This role offers a significant opportunity to contribute to a safer and healthier workplace.