Safety Officer

City of The Dalles•The Dalles, OR

About The Position

As The Dalles' Safety Officer, you'll play a pivotal role in protecting City employees, supporting department leaders, and shaping a culture where safety is truly a shared value. You will directly influence policies, emergency preparedness, training, and workplace practices that keep our community and workforce safe. This role gives you the autonomy and professional authority to make real, lasting impact. You will work closely with the Executive Leadership and report to the Assistant City Manager/Human Resources Director, giving you visibility and influence across all City operations.

Requirements

Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Ability to clearly communicate, both verbally and in writing, with employees, supervisors, City leadership, and the public.
Build and maintain effective working relationships across departments.
Handle difficult or sensitive situations with tact and professionalism.
Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
Technical Expertise
Knowledge of OR ‑ OSHA regulations and apply them effectively across City operations.
Experience conducting investigations, including gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Ability to develop clear reports, policies, and safety recommendations.
Ability to apply mathematics to statistical modeling and apply statistical methods.
Problem ‑ Solving and Decision ‑ Making
Ability to create clear processes and systems where ambiguity exists.
Demonstrate strong judgment, record‑keeping, and organizational skills.
Make well‑reasoned decisions in high‑responsibility safety situations.
Work independently and proactively.
Bachelor's degree in Safety Management, Industrial Hygiene, Engineering, or a related field; OR three (3) years of experience in a safety ‑ related lead role, such as Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, Industrial Hygienist, or similar position.
Experience with environmental health, hazardous materials management, and environmental components of workplace safety.
Experience applying OSHA or OR‑OSHA regulations in a workplace setting.
Experience conducting workplace safety inspections, incident/accident investigations, and developing corrective action plans.
Experience developing and implementing safety policies, written safety programs, or emergency action plans.
Experience delivering safety training or facilitating safety committees.
Proficiency using computers and software applications for documentation, reporting, and training management.
Valid driver's license and insurable driving record.
Ability to pass a pre ‑ employment drug test.
Must be able to obtain and maintain CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) certification within 2 months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Written and/or Oral Spanish language proficiency
Experience with emergency management
Experience with risk management
Certification in Occupational Health and Safety, or Industrial Hygiene preferred

Responsibilities

Lead and maintain OR-OSHA compliance across all City departments, including preparation of written programs and policies, scheduling employee training and testing, and documentation of compliance.
Coordinate the Citywide Safety Committee, including monthly meetings, documentation, and follow‑up support.
Conduct and support accident and incident investigations, including root‑cause analysis and recommended corrective actions.
Conduct safety inspections and risk assessments, identify occupational hazards, and monitor and report on safety initiatives with recommended corrective actions.
D evelop and coordinate emergency action plans, support emergency management activities, and serve as liaison with regional partners during planning, response, and recovery.
Assist in the administration and training for the City's Drug and Alcohol Program.
Ensure appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) selection and use and maintain awareness of chemical and material hazards affecting employees and the workplace.
Responsible for the development of Health and Safety policies.
Oversee safety‑related records management, including SAIF reporting, inventory coordination, and statistical documentation used for cost accounting and safety analysis.
Prepare reports both written and oral, purchase requests, and other communications as necessary to meet operational activities and needs of the division.
Assist with budget development and research, apply for, and manage safety‑related grants.
Perform other related duties as may be required or assigned.
Travel to other work sites and out of town for training is required in this position, therefore valid driver's license and insurable driving record is required.