Safety and Risk Manager at Detroit Water and Sewerage Department

The Risk and Safety (R&S) Manager plans, develops, implements, administers, directs, evaluates and maintains programs necessary to ensure a safe and healthy environment for employees and visitors and to protect Detroit Water & Sewerage Department against losses. The position is also responsible for the development, management and implementation of a centralized, comprehensive and coordinated risk management program for DWSD. The role liaises with safety code-related city and federal agencies, and ensures that the operations follow applicable codes and regulations. The position requires collaboration with a broad range of internal customers and stakeholders.

The role has a major impact on the operations and serves as an expert in R&S management industry standards and best management practices, including education and training. It requires a thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal guidelines. Frequent analysis to resolve issues that are unique and without precedent is necessary, including in response to various emergencies and ability to lead and support cross-functional management of safety initiatives is essential.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES

SAFETY: Monitors the removal of physical, biological and chemical hazards, and training of employees on safety policies, procedures, and regulations. Verifies compliance with health and safety regulations and ensures all necessary records are maintained and prepared according to established guidelines. Manages the participation in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspections, providing inspectors with appropriate documents and identifying safety measures. Ensures projects are completed on time and within budget. Acts as advisor to health and safety administration team regarding projects, tasks, and operations. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. 

RISK: Liaison on behalf of DWSD to City of Detroit Risk Manager who develops and administers a coordinated City-wide program of insurance coverage, including contract and coverage negotiation with insurance brokers, medical facilities and third party insurance providers. Develops and administers any separate insurance coverage specific to DWSD.    Represents DWSD in formal or informational sessions related to laws, rules and legislation that affect the DWSD risk management program. Reviews contracts, project proposals and bond issues to evaluate liability to ensure adequate indemnification. Identifies, evaluates and implements risk transfer mechanisms to protect the DWSD against liability claims and reduce the potential for financial loss. Directs and coordinates actuarial reviews and reviews the adjustments of self-insured, third party insured and non-insured losses. Advises DWSD divisions on methods for risk reduction. Develops the annual risk and safety group budget for contribution to the Human Resources budget.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, public administration, finance, accounting or related field. Preferably completion of advanced coursework related to insurance administration, underwriting or risk management. 
• Master’s degree preferred, with specialization in environmental or occupational health and safety, risk management or a related discipline. 
• A minimum of five (5) to seven (7) years of experience in risk management including supervision of component activities such as worker’s compensation and occupational safety, assisting with planning and conducting successful safety programs covering a wide variety of occupations and exposures to hazardous work environments.
• Certified Safety Professional Certification (preferred).