Job Description
Job DescriptionJob Title: Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO)
Location: Lexington, KY
Start Date: ASAP
Employment Type: 1099 Contractor
Duration: 2-Year Project Assignment
Compensation
???? Rate: $54 to $58 per hour
???? Per Diem: Not available (Local candidates strongly preferred)
???? Pay Frequency: Weekly
Schedule
???? Hours: Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week
???? Additional Work: Occasional overtime as project demands
Project Overview
This role provides full-time on-site safety leadership for a federal new-build construction project at the USDA Forage-Animal Production Research Unit in Lexington, KY. The Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO) will partner closely with project management, field supervision, and federal stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with EM 385-1-1 standards, proactive hazard mitigation, and continuous safety performance improvement throughout the project lifecycle.
Scope of Work
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Provide comprehensive site safety oversight in accordance with EM 385-1-1 and federal project requirements
• Conduct daily, documented safety inspections, audits, and hazard assessments
• Lead new hire orientations, toolbox talks, and site-specific safety training
• Monitor subcontractor compliance and enforce corrective actions when necessary
• Investigate incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions, implementing preventive measures
• Maintain accurate digital and written safety documentation and reports
• Coordinate closely with project leadership, contractors, and federal inspectors
• Promote a strong, visible, and accountable safety culture on site
Required Qualifications
• EM 385-1-1 Certification (Mandatory)
• Minimum 10 years of relevant construction safety experience
• Proven experience working on federal or government-regulated projects
• Strong knowledge of OSHA, USACE, and federal safety standards
• Detail-oriented, highly organized, and compliance-focused
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to confidently lead safety meetings and corrective action processes
• Professional, reliable, and capable of managing long-term project assignments
Experience and Credentials
Candidates must meet one of the following qualification paths:
Option 1
• EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)
• 10+ Years Relevant Experience
• BCSP Certification (STSC, CHST, CSP, or Equivalent)
Option 2
• EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)
• 10+ Years Relevant Experience
• Bachelor's Degree in Safety or Related Field
Option 3
• EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)
• 10+ Years Relevant Experience
• OSHA 500 Authorized Trainer
Technical Skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Experience with digital safety management and reporting platforms
• Strong documentation and recordkeeping capabilities
• Ability to utilize mobile and cloud-based compliance systems
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.