Damage Prevention Specialist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois.

📋 Description

• Foster a culture centered around safe work practices through strong leadership.

• Conduct investigations following incidents and compile reports to determine root causes.

• Offer recommendations for corrective actions and ensure they are implemented and documented.

• Propel damage-prevention initiatives and assess their effectiveness.

• Educate team members and contractors to enhance their skills and competencies.

• Perform training-needs assessments and collaborate with the director of safety and damage prevention to design a damage-prevention training program.

• Organize damage-prevention and safety training sessions, which cover topics like excavation safety, OSHA-10 and OSHA-30, competent person training, NESC safety, directional drilling, utility locating, and temporary traffic control.

• Instruct and guide regulatory, compliance, and Metronet safety training in both classroom and on-site environments.

• Implement safety training, policies, procedures, and programs aimed at improving safe behaviors and managing hazards.

• Conduct, facilitate, and evaluate damage-prevention and safety audits and inspections.

• Provide on-site training as required.

• Advise management on safety matters, OSHA regulations, risk management, and company policies.

• Identify, document, and propose solutions for hazardous conditions.

• Oversee the inventory and distribution of safety equipment and PPE, including tracking and calibration.

• Participate in safety meetings and joint audits with both internal and external management teams.

• Offer continuous training and feedback regarding observations, competency assessments, compliance activities, and documentation.

• Develop actionable plans, monitor metrics, and analyze data to achieve desired outcomes.

• Travel frequently for on-site visits and inspections.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts degree in a related field.

• A minimum of three (3+) years of relevant experience in damage prevention, utility operations, construction, or EHS, including investigative experience.

• Proficient understanding of federal, state, and local safety regulations and OSHA standards.

• Preferred certifications in Rescue/CPR, OSHA, confined space, MOT, and defensive driving standards.

• Willingness to obtain train-the-trainer certifications, OSHA, and other necessary training certificates and licenses.

• Experience in delivering training in both group and individual formats.

• Capability to operate and maintain company vehicles and equipment safely and professionally.

• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

• Extensive experience in conducting thorough incident/damage investigations, reporting, and root cause analysis.

• Familiarity with excavation equipment, damage prevention standards, state and federal regulations, and state one-call laws.

• Preferred professional credentials such as CSP or CIH and/or health and safety experience in a telecommunications outside plant setting.

• Ability to read and interpret business documents, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, government regulations, OSHA, ANSI, and DOT requirements.

• Capacity to multitask in a dynamic work environment.

• Results-oriented and detail-focused, with the ability to anticipate needs and proactively find solutions.

• Strong skills in influence, negotiation, and conflict resolution.

• Excellent interpersonal management skills with the ability to build trust throughout the organization.

• Proficient in communicating and securing buy-in for damage prevention and safety vision, strategy, and local plans.

• Ability to challenge existing processes and formulate effective implementation plans and timelines.

• Willingness to travel 50–75% for work-related purposes.

• Must possess and maintain a valid vehicle driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.

🏝️ Benefits

• 80% of medical premiums covered by the company.

• Company-paid disability and life insurance.

• 401(k) company matching program.

• Discounted services available within coverage areas.

• A locally owned, welcoming, and enjoyable work environment.

• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.

• Competitive total compensation package.