Fleet Safety Specialist

Job Summary:

The Safety Specialist is responsible for overseeing and enforcing safety protocols for a fleet of waste management vehicles. This role ensures compliance with DOT & FMCSA regulations, OSHA standards, and company safety policies. A critical part of this role is maintaining an accurate accident log, creating claims when necessary, and communicating with insurance to resolve any and all incidents. The Safety Specialist supports daily operations by identifying risks, providing training, conducting inspections, and promoting a culture of safety across all fleet operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor and enforce compliance with all federal, state, and local transportation safety regulations (DOT, FMCSA, OSHA).

• Conduct routine vehicle and driver safety inspections, audits, and accident investigations.

• Lead root cause analyses for vehicle incidents and recommend corrective actions.

• Develop and deliver safety training programs (e.g., pre-trip inspections, defensive driving, proper PPE use, spill response).

• Maintain records of safety meetings, trainings, incident reports, and compliance documents.

• Collaborate with dispatchers, drivers, and maintenance staff to promote safe operations and reduce incidents.

• Monitor driver behavior using telematics systems (e.g., GPS, dash cams) and coach drivers accordingly.

• Support onboarding and safety orientation for new drivers and fleet employees.

• Serve as the point of contact for regulatory agencies and insurance providers during audits or investigations.

• Track key safety metrics (accident rate, violations, near-misses) and generate regular reports for leadership.

• Participate in fleet maintenance planning to ensure vehicle safety and regulatory compliance.

• Stay current on industry best practices and changes in safety regulations.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety, Transportation, or related field preferred).

• 3+ years of experience in fleet safety or operations, preferably in waste management or transportation.

• In-depth knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations and OSHA standards.

• Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or similar certification preferred.

• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and safety tracking software.

• Valid driver’s license (CDL a plus).

Work Environment:

• Combination of office, yard, and on-road environments.

• May be exposed to weather, heavy equipment, and waste material.

• Occasional after-hours response required in case of accidents or emergencies.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid time off and holidays

• Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement (if applicable)