Environmental Health and Safety Manager

Environmental Health & Safety Manager

The Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Manager is responsible for leading and managing all aspects of the paper mill's safety and environmental programs. This role drives a proactive safety culture, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports operational excellence by implementing effective health, safety, and environmental systems. The EHS Manager partners closely with site leadership, employees, and external stakeholders to reduce risk, prevent incidents, and promote continuous improvement in safety and environmental performance.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead and promote a strong, site-wide safety culture focused on continuous improvement and employee engagement
• Establish, implement, and monitor safety and environmental goals, objectives, and key performance indicators in alignment with organizational strategy
• Partner with site leadership to integrate EHS initiatives into daily operations and long-term planning

Program Development & Implementation

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive EHS programs, policies, and procedures, including emergency response plans
• Oversee safety programs such as PPE, ergonomics, machine guarding, hearing conservation, dust control, and first aid
• Lead contractor safety and contractor management processes
• Manage fire protection systems and emergency response programs, including rescue team coordination

Training & Communication

• Design and deliver EHS training programs for employees, supervisors, and new hires; ensure proper documentation and compliance
• Promote safety and environmental awareness through effective communication, coaching, and engagement initiatives
• Lead and facilitate safety committees, including Union/Management collaboration

Compliance & Regulatory Management

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA and environmental requirements
• Prepare and maintain required reports and documentation (e.g., OSHA logs, regulatory filings)
• Act as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies and support audits, inspections, and inquiries

Risk Management & Incident Prevention

• Conduct safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments to identify hazards and implement corrective actions
• Lead incident and accident investigations, ensuring root cause analysis and preventive measures are established
• Oversee workers' compensation programs, claims management, and return-to-work initiatives to reduce lost time and costs

Environmental Management

• Lead environmental compliance programs related to air emissions, water intake, wastewater, and stormwater
• Manage environmental monitoring, including sampling, lab testing, and data collection to meet regulatory requirements
• Coordinate with external agencies and engineering partners for permitting, licensing renewals, and environmental studies
• Support sustainability initiatives and continuous improvement in environmental performance
• Review and approve chemical trials to ensure environmental and safety compliance

Data, Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Manage EHS data systems, metrics, and reporting to track performance and drive improvements
• Analyze trends and develop action plans to enhance safety and environmental outcomes
• Collaborate with other sites to standardize and improve EHS programs and best practices

Collaboration & Support

• Provide guidance and support to leadership, operations, and HR to achieve organizational objectives
• Represent the organization in industry groups, community initiatives, and safety forums

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• 5–10+ years of progressive EHS experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment is a must
• Prior Paper Industry Experience is preferred
• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health & Safety, Occupational Safety, Environmental Science, or related field (or equivalent experience) or prior Law Enforcement experience preferred
• Experience working in unionized environments preferred

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations and environmental compliance requirements
• Experience with incident investigation, root cause analysis, and risk assessment methodologies
• Familiarity with environmental permitting, sampling, and reporting processes
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to influence and engage employees at all levels of the organization
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities

Certifications (Preferred):

• CSP (Certified Safety Professional), CIH (Certified Industrial Hygienist)

Working Conditions

• Based in a paper manufacturing environment with regular exposure to operational areas
• Requires regular walking, inspections, and engagement on the production floor
• Site has its own wastewater treatment plant.
• Individual may be exposed to working in confined spaces or at heights from time to time
• May require occasional travel to other sites or for training and regulatory meetings

Additional Information

• This role may require flexibility in working hours to support operations and respond to emergencies
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned