Van Hessen is one of the leading global players in the sourcing, processing and distribution of natural casings, meat products and pharmaceuticals. We process animal by-products from slaughterhouses into high-quality food materials and raw materials for the pharmaceutical industry. Our products are 100% natural and, due to the knowledge and skills of our employees, of a very high and consistent quality. We strive to outdo ourselves every day.

Role Purpose:

The Health and Safety Specialist develops and implements programs and training which is essential to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our colleagues.

As the Health and Safety Specialist, you will have multi-site responsibility to continue to enhance our health and safety programs across the US.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Enhance and monitor the behaviour-based safety management system at all Van Hessen USA locations
• Ensure compliance with all local, state and federal workplace safety laws
• Oversee incident investigations, determine root causes, and develop proactive plans to prevent future incidents
• Handle worker compensation claims
• Develop site-specific workplace and food safety training
• Provide food safety and human safety training to employees
• Analyse incident data, track trends, and develop corrective actions
• Track, review and maintain all safety documentation provided by each site
• Conduct onsite audits to ensure compliance with workplace and food safety programs
• Analyse and monitor the effectiveness of the health and safety programs, make changes as necessary
• Recommend loss reduction strategies and opportunities for improvement
• Internally audit procedures performed in the Chicago location for compliance with the latest food safety requirements
• Lead monthly meetings with managers and executive leadership team
• Other duties as required

Required knowledge, skills and qualifications:

• A minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in an occupational safety and/or food safety role is essential
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Experience engaging and influencing stakeholders to follow procedures and process
• Excellent analytical skills with investigatory experience
• Must have a proactive approach to recommending and implementing improvements/solutions
• Prior experience with health and safety onsite audits with appreciation for compliance and regulations
• B.S. or B.A qualified is desirable for this role
• English (with excellent verbal and written communication) is essential
• Professional or fluent level of Spanish would be desirable

What do we offer?

• Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance for you and your family
• An inclusive and vibrant company culture
• Nine paid holidays
• Paid vacation and personal days