Director, Safety & Compliance in Fairfield, New Jersey at Kept Companies Inc

The Director of Safety & Compliance is responsible for developing, implementing, and leading Kept Companies' safety, compliance, and risk management strategy across all operating locations. This role partners with Operations, HR, Legal, and Leadership to ensure a safe workplace, regulatory compliance, and consistent execution of company policies and procedures.

The Director will establish proactive safety programs, reduce workplace injuries, improve OSHA compliance, oversee workers' compensation coordination, and create standardized field processes that support operational excellence and employee well-being.

Direct Responsibilities

Safety Leadership

• Develop and execute the company's safety strategy.
• Establish and maintain company-wide safety standards and programs.
• Conduct regular safety audits and field inspections.
• Monitor safety metrics and recommend corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce incidents and claims.
• Partner with Operations to create a culture where safety is a core business value.

OSHA & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with OSHA and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Maintain required safety records and documentation.
• Manage OSHA reporting requirements, including recordkeeping and investigations.
• Monitor regulatory changes and update company policies accordingly.
• Coordinate regulatory inspections and responses.

Training & Education

• Develop and implement safety training programs.
• Ensure required compliance training is completed timely.
• Create onboarding safety programs for new employees.
• Conduct manager and supervisor training on safety responsibilities.
• Maintain training records and compliance documentation.

Compliance Programs

• Develop and maintain company compliance policies and procedures.
• Ensure field locations maintain required labor law and safety postings.
• Oversee fleet safety initiatives.
• Support DOT and driver qualification compliance where applicable.
• Monitor compliance with company operational standards.

Investigations & Risk Management

• Lead investigations involving workplace injuries and significant safety incidents.
• Identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate with HR and Operations on policy violations.
• Support litigation and insurance matters as needed.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Safety & Compliance function.
• Build strong partnerships with Operations, HR, and executive leadership.
• Influence organizational culture through education and accountability.
• Provide coaching and guidance to managers.
• Develop annual strategic plans and departmental goals.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Safety, Occupational Health, Risk Management, HR, Business, or related field.
• 7–10 years of progressive safety and compliance leadership experience.
• Multi-site, multi-state operational experience.
• Strong knowledge of:
  • OSHA regulations
  • Workers' compensation
  • DOT regulations (preferred)
  • Employment-related compliance requirements
  • Risk management principles
• Experience conducting investigations.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Preferred

• Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
• Associate Safety Professional (ASP)
• Experience in facilities management, transportation, or field services.
• Experience with HRIS and incident management systems.

Working Conditions

• Frequent travel to company locations nationwide (approximately 25–50%).
• Ability to conduct field inspections in various work environments.
• Availability to respond to significant safety incidents when necessary.