EHS Manager
The EHS Manager is responsible for ensuring the plant operates within all applicable EHS laws and maintains the facility’s safe operation. Directly supervise a large EHS department and reports to a Corporate EHS Director.
The EHS Manager prioritizes safety leadership by promoting a culture of excellence in environmental, health, and safety practices. This ensures everyone is actively involved, empowered, and encouraged to innovate. Developing strong relationships and establishing credibility while advocating for EHS concerns on the site is essential. An ethical organization that places value on these principles is crucial.
The ideal candidate for this position should possess leadership skills and the ability to manage a team and program in the chemical industry. Additionally, they should be able to represent the company effectively in the community and present to individuals at all organizational levels. The candidate should also be cross-functional in all environmental, health, and safety (EHS) areas, including behavior-based safety (BBS). This is an excellent opportunity for someone to continue building a sustainable EHS program.
EHS Manager Job description
This position is responsible for ensuring the plant is operating within all applicable EHS laws and maintaining the facility’s safe operation. Directly supervise a large EHS department and reports to a Corporate EHS Director.
The focus is on promoting safety leadership by cultivating a culture of excellence in environment, health, and safety (EHS) where all individuals are actively involved, empowered, and creative. Establishing solid relationships and credibility is essential while influencing the site on all EHS issues. The organization places a high value on ethics and values.
Indeed, leadership as an Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Manager involves unique skills and qualities. Here’s a deeper dive into the aspects of leadership specific to the EHS Manager role:
- Vision and Strategy: A strong EHS leader sets a clear vision for safety and sustainability within the organization. Develop a strategic roadmap that outlines goals, objectives, and a path to achieving them. Align your EHS initiatives with the overall business strategy.
- Risk Management: EHS managers should be keen to identify potential risks and hazards within the workplace. Assess the potential impact of these risks and devise strategies to mitigate them effectively. Implement proactive measures to prevent incidents and accidents.
- Leading by Example: Demonstrate a commitment to safety and environmental practices through your actions. When others see you prioritizing safety, they are more likely to follow suit.
- Empowerment and Delegation: Empower your team to take ownership of safety initiatives. Delegate responsibilities and provide your team members with the necessary resources and authority to make decisions that promote EHS goals.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for an EHS manager. Communicate clearly and consistently with employees, senior management, and other stakeholders. Tailor your communication style to your audience, making complex EHS concepts understandable.
- Influencing Skills: As an EHS leader, you often need to influence people at all levels of the organization to adopt safer practices and comply with regulations. Use your communication skills to explain the “why” behind safety measures and inspire action.
- Collaboration and Team Building: Foster a collaborative environment where all departments work together to achieve EHS objectives. Build relationships across the organization and leverage cross-functional teams to implement safety programs.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Use data analysis to make informed decisions. Track key performance indicators, incident rates, and compliance metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement.
- Training and Education: An effective EHS leader provides ongoing training and education to employees. Develop training programs that address specific risks and ensure employees have the knowledge to work safely.
- Continuous Improvement: Encourage a culture of continuous improvement in EHS practices. Regularly assess the effectiveness of safety programs, seek employee feedback, and adjust strategies as needed.
- Regulatory Expertise: Stay up-to-date with evolving regulations in the EHS field. Interpret regulatory changes and ensure that your organization remains compliant.
- Crisis Management: EHS leaders must be prepared to manage environmental incidents or workplace accidents. Develop well-defined response plans and ensure your team is trained to handle emergencies effectively.
- Recognition and Motivation: Recognize and reward employees who contribute to a positive safety culture. Motivate your team by acknowledging their efforts and celebrating milestones in EHS performance.
- Ethical Leadership: Uphold the highest ethical standards in your role. Demonstrate integrity, transparency, and a commitment to doing what’s right for the safety of employees and the environment.
- Professional Development: Stay current with industry trends, attend conferences, and pursue opportunities for professional development. This informs you about best practices and innovative approaches in the EHS field.
An EHS Manager’s leadership role requires strategic thinking, effective communication, collaboration, and a solid commitment to safety and sustainability. By embodying these qualities, you can drive positive change, foster a culture of safety, and contribute to the overall success of your organization.
EHS Manager Qualifications & Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health and Safety, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
- Applicants must possess at least ten years of experience in environmental and industrial safety leadership, with specific expertise in the chemical industry.
- Relevant certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) are a plus.
- Proven experience in EHS management, preferably in a managerial or leadership capacity.
- Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal EHS regulations.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to influence and engage employees at all levels.
- Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
The role of an Environmental, Health, and Safety Manager is critical to creating a safe, compliant, and sustainable work environment.
EHS Manager interview questions
Check out the EHS Manager interview questions HERE.
EHS Manager Salary
- Compensation Range: $150,000.00 to $185,000.00/year
- Full Benefits
- Relocation assistance
EHS Manager Interview Questions
Location
Des Moines, IA
EHS Manager works in Des Moines, Iowa.
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