Safety and DOT Consultant

Higginbotham, a privately held, independent insurance and financial services firm that ranks within the top 20 nationwide, has an immediate opening for a Safety and DOT Consultant in the Houston, TX area.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Safety and DOT Consultant to join our team and provide expert guidance on regulatory compliance, safety standards, risk management, implementation of safety programs and operational best practices for businesses in multiple industry types. You will be responsible for advising clients on matters related to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules, Hours of Service (HOS) requirements, driver qualifications, HAZMAT and more. You will also work closely with the client to develop tailored safety plans and provide guidance on compliance with local, state and federal safety regulations. Your role will be vital in minimizing risks and creating a safer work environment across various organizations. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of DOT and safety regulations and standards, a keen eye for detail, and a proven track record in consulting or managing DOT and safety management/compliance programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Regulatory Updates & Implementation: Keep clients informed about new or changing OSHA and DOT regulations. Advise clients on how required training, documentation, reports, and records are conducted and maintained in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• DOT Compliance Guidance: Advise and assist clients with understanding and complying with DOT regulations, including federal, state, and local requirements. Train on maintaining accurate and up-to-date DOT-required records, including driver logs, vehicle inspection reports and safety audits.
• Workplace Safety Assessment and Audits: Conduct detailed safety audits and inspections at client sites to assess risks and identify hazards in the workplace, (e.g., machinery, equipment, processes), based on relevant safety standards (OSHA, DOT, local regulations, current industry standards etc.). Perform mock DOT audits, assessments and compliance checks to prepare clients for official DOT inspections or audits. Provide clients with a comprehensive report and actionable recommendations for risk mitigation.
• Safety Program Development: Collaborate with clients to design and implement effective safety programs, procedures and training manuals to address their specific industry needs and work environments ensuring they meet regulatory and industry standards (OSHA, DOT, local regulations, etc.). Assist clients with development of emergency response plans, safety protocols and incident reporting systems to ensure prompt and effective responses to incidents. Advise clients on best practices to improve safety performance, reduce violations, and optimize operational efficiency.
• Training and Education: Deliver OSHA Safety and DOT training sessions, workshops, and seminars for employees at all levels, educating on various topics such as PPE, emergency preparedness, proper handling of hazardous materials, regulatory requirements, DOT Hours of Service (HOS), driver qualification files, vehicle maintenance, and drug/alcohol testing requirements, and many more.
• Incident Investigation & Reporting: Lead investigations and give guidance on workplace accidents, near misses, and safety-related incidents. Analyze causes and recommend corrective actions to prevent future occurrences. Assist with accident investigations, safety incident reporting, and corrective actions to ensure compliance and reduce risk.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of safety inspections, audits, training sessions and compliance reports. Prepare and present detailed safety reports, risk assessments, service records and progress updates to the Blakeman and Associates operations department upon completion of service. Schedule upcoming service visits and record schedule on the shared company calendar system for accurate tracking.

Location:

• This is a field position. This position is a hybrid position that works from home and at client sites.
• Home office is located in Montgomery, TX. Would be required to come into office for occasional meetings.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Regular travel is required to onsite client locations locally (Houston Area)
• Extensive knowledge of current safety policies and applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong ability to conduct training and confidently
• Ability to work in the various work settings including retail, commercial, oil & gas, industrial and manufacturing, and many more
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software

Education and Experience

• Degree in Safety and Health Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Safety, or related field of study is preferred (AAS, BS)
• At least five or more years of occupational health and safety experience in an industrial environment is preferred
• Certification (COSM, CSP, COSS) is a plus