Safety Specialist

Backed by over 100 years of expertise and driven by innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, Shimmick is one of the most dynamic infrastructure builders in the industry. With market leadership in water resources, sustainable transportation, and complex electrical construction, we’re well-positioned to lead during a time of rapid change. As project delivery models, regulatory frameworks, supply chains, and technology continue to evolve, our ability to stay flexible and agile in our safety approach is essential to our success.

The Safety Specialist supports the implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of the company’s Safety & Health Program across heavy civil construction projects. This role requires a proven ability to work in high-risk, complex environments and to foster a strong safety culture through engagement, training, and field leadership.

The Safety Specialist is a mid-level safety professional expected to provide expert guidance, ensure compliance with applicable regulations, lead incident investigations, and mentor field teams to proactively address hazards before they result in injuries or incidents.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Implementation & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local safety regulations (CalOSHA, MSHA, DOT, etc.) and company policies.
• Support project leadership in implementing site-specific safety plans, activity hazard analyses, and risk mitigation strategies.

• Training & Certification Oversight

• Deliver safety orientations, toolbox talks, and targeted training for employees and subcontractors.
• Maintain accurate records of safety training, certifications, and compliance activities.

• Field Safety Leadership

• Conduct regular jobsite safety inspections and audits; document findings and ensure timely corrective actions.
• Partner with supervisors and craft to identify and control hazards related to excavation, cranes, rigging, confined space, and other heavy civil activities.

• Incident Response & Investigation

• Serve as first responder for workplace incidents; provide immediate first aid/CPR as needed.
• Lead root cause analyses and develop corrective/preventive measures to prevent recurrence.

• Mentorship & Culture Building

• Coach craft personnel and foremen on hazard recognition and safe work practices.
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement in safety performance

Minimum Requirements:      

• 4 years of safety experience in heavy civil construction (bridges, roadways, earthwork, marine, or similar).
• CHST (Construction Health & Safety Technician) certification.
• Current First Aid / CPR certification.
• Proven ability to interpret and apply OSHA regulations and industry best practices.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage employees at all levels.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and safety management software. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with accident trend analysis and leading targeted safety initiatives.
• OSHA 510 – Occupational Safety and Health Standards for the Construction Industry.
• OSHA 500 – Trainer Course in OSHA Standards for Construction
• Additional certifications such as:

• Trench & Excavation Competent Person
• Fall Protection Competent Person
• Rigging/Signal Person Qualification
• Confined Space
• HAZWOPER (24- or 40-hour) 

Additional Information:

• The position is based in the Sacramento area and will require time spent at project sites, corporate offices, and associated travel.
• Proactive hazard recognition and problem-solving.
• Clear, confident communication and training delivery.
• High ethical standards and commitment to zero-incident culture.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Qualified applicants who are offered a position must pass a pre-employment substance abuse test.
• This position does not include sponsorship for a United States work authorization.

The salary range for this position is between $115,000-$130,000 per year depending on experience and/or education.

Shimmick offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future. Employees can choose from multiple medical plans, including a $0 premium option, with dental, vision, and HSA options available. We provide 100% employer-paid life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan with a company match. Our paid time off program includes paid holidays, and Volunteer Time Off in addition to PTO days. Additional benefits include flexible and hybrid work options, flexible spending accounts, and voluntary coverages such as pet insurance, legal, and identity theft protection.