Site Safety & Health Officer (Ssho)

Job Title: Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO)

Location: Lexington, KYStart Date: March 2, 2026Employment Type: 1099 ContractorDuration: 2-Year Project Assignment

Compensation

Rate: $54 to $58 per hourPer Diem: Not available (Local candidates strongly preferred)Pay Frequency: Weekly

Schedule

Hours: Monday through Friday, 40 hours per weekAdditional Work: Occasional overtime as project demands

Project Overview

This role provides full-time on-site safety leadership for a federal new-build construction project at the USDA Forage-Animal Production Research Unit in Lexington, KY. The Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO) will partner closely with project management, field supervision, and federal stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with EM 385-1-1 standards, proactive hazard mitigation, and continuous safety performance improvement throughout the project lifecycle.

Scope of Work

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide comprehensive site safety oversight in accordance with EM 385-1-1 and federal project requirements• Conduct daily, documented safety inspections, audits, and hazard assessments• Lead new hire orientations, toolbox talks, and site-specific safety training• Monitor subcontractor compliance and enforce corrective actions when necessary• Investigate incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions, implementing preventive measures• Maintain accurate digital and written safety documentation and reports• Coordinate closely with project leadership, contractors, and federal inspectors• Promote a strong, visible, and accountable safety culture on site

Required Qualifications

• EM 385-1-1 Certification (Mandatory)• Minimum 10 years of relevant construction safety experience• Proven experience working on federal or government-regulated projects• Strong knowledge of OSHA, USACE, and federal safety standards• Detail-oriented, highly organized, and compliance-focused• Excellent verbal and written communication skills• Ability to confidently lead safety meetings and corrective action processes• Professional, reliable, and capable of managing long-term project assignments

Experience and Credentials

Candidates must meet one of the following qualification paths:

Option 1• EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)• 10+ Years Relevant Experience• BCSP Certification (STSC, CHST, CSP, or Equivalent)

Option 2• EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)• 10+ Years Relevant Experience• Bachelor's Degree in Safety or Related Field

Option 3• EM 385-1-1 (Mandatory)• 10+ Years Relevant Experience• OSHA 500 Authorized Trainer

Technical Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)• Experience with digital safety management and reporting platforms• Strong documentation and recordkeeping capabilities• Ability to utilize mobile and cloud-based compliance systems

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.