Operational Safety Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Operational Safety Specialist to join our team. In this hands-on role, you will play a critical part in protecting employee well-being, safeguarding our facilities, and fostering a robust safety culture. If you are passionate about creating a safe work environment and driving a positive impact on our operational culture then this role is for you.

To be successful in this role you have to be prepared to spend a significant amount of your time walking the facilities, talking to workers, coaching leaders, digging into incidents and near misses and using safety data to drive meaningful actions.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Conducts regular field-level inspections and task risk reviews (JTO’s/JHAs/FLRAs) to identify hazards and assess the associated risks, before they result in incidents, property damage, or injuries.
• Support operations in incident management, including data collection, root cause analysis, the identification of corrective actions and follow-up until their full implementation.
• Collaborate with other HSE departments and support functions to contribute to the improvement of safety programs, training materials, best practices and work procedures.
• Works side-by-side with supervisors to develop practical, site-specific safety controls that preserve operational throughput without compromising quality or safety standards.
• Verify that everyday field activities align with statutory requirements (WSBC/TSBC/TDG) and internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Facilitate and where applicable help deliver engaging safety training, orientations, and educational programs to staff across all levels.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of training sessions, safety audits, inspections, and regulatory reporting through safety management software ensuring timely and accurate reporting of key metrics and data into the corporate EHS management system.
• Actively participate in Joint Health & Safety Committees and engage with Worker Health & Safety Representatives and field based staff to help maintain a safe and positive operational culture.
• Other operational duties as required

Qualifications & Requirements

• Degree, diploma, or professional certification in Health and Safety or a related field preferred; an equivalent combination of education, training, and hands-on operational experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a similar on-site EHS support or advisory role.
• Experience in Waste Management, Transportation and Warehousing, or Manufacturing would be a strong asset.
• Hold or be eligible to work towards the Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) or equivalent industry designation.
• Good understanding of BC OHS regulations, safety management systems (SMS), and industry safety standards.
• Proficiency in using Google Workspace.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with a strong aptitude for delivering effective training.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and risk-assessment abilities.
• Proven capability to work self-sufficiently as well as collaboratively across cross-functional teams.
• Ability to interact effectively with all levels of the organization.

Why Join GFL?

• Work for one of the fastest-growing environmental firms in North America.
• Competitive compensation package with a company-matched RRSP program to support your financial future.
• Industry leading health, dental, vision and mental health benefits—with premiums fully covered by GFL.
• Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for you and your family.
• Paid training, professional development, and advancement opportunities.
• A positive, collaborative work culture that invests in your success.