Vegetation Management Field Safety Observer

Utility Vegetation Management Field Safety Observer (FSO)

(Utility Line Clearance Arborist – CUSP Preferred)

ICON Utility Services is seeking a qualified Field Safety Observer (FSO) focused on Utility Vegetation Management (UVM) and Utility Line Clearance Arborist operations.

Utility Vegetation Management Field Safety Observers will be deployed to various locations throughout our utility client’s service territory, primarily in San Diego County. FSOs will conduct safety observations on our utility client’s vegetation management contractors and subcontractors performing overhead line clearance, tree trimming, removals, right-of-way maintenance, and related vegetation management activities near energized systems.

Our utility client’s project work includes overhead and underground electrical transmission & distribution construction and maintenance, gas transmission and distribution operations, and utility vegetation management activities.

Your Work Will Include:

· Providing Utility Vegetation Management safety oversight and support

· Applying arboricultural, electrical hazard, regulatory, and safety standard knowledge to promote safe work practices around energized conductors

· Performing regular field observations and recording safety audits to reinforce safety and human performance expectations

· Observing and evaluating line clearance tree trimming, removals, climbing operations, aerial lift work, and chipper operations

· Ensuring compliance with OSHA, ANSI Z133, CPUC (as applicable), and client safety standards

· Monitoring proper use of PPE, fall protection, electrical Minimum Approach Distances (MAD), and traffic control measures

· Attending internal and external meetings to promote strong contractor safety performance

· Coordinating with project managers, vegetation planners, general forepersons, and crew leaders

· Coordinating with subject matter experts regarding recorded incidents, identifying root causes and recommending mitigation strategies

· Supporting investigations and reviews of contractor incidents and near misses

· Maintaining high service standards, ethics, and professionalism at all times

· Being a collaborative team player

· Working comfortably in various outdoor environments and field conditions

Qualifications:

· Excellent written and oral communication skills

· Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) – Preferred and may be accepted in lieu of a Bachelor’s degree

· Bachelor’s degree in safety, forestry, arboriculture, construction management, engineering, environmental science, or related field OR equivalent industry experience

· Minimum 4 years of experience in utility vegetation management or line clearance arboriculture

· Strong understanding of OSHA regulations and industry safety standards

· Experience working around energized transmission and distribution systems

· CPR/AED certification required

· Must be able to pass a drug and background check

· Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets company insurance requirements

· Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications:

· ISA Certified Arborist (especially Utility Specialist)

· Knowledge of ANSI Z133 safety standards

· Experience with traffic control and work zone safety

· Experience with incident investigation and root cause analysis

· Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Additional Information:

The standard work week is forty hours. Extended hours, weekends, and occasional night work may be required. Split shifts may be required to ensure coverage of day and night operations as needed.

Pay: $45.00 - $50.00 per hour

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Employee assistance program

- Health insurance

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Referral program

- Vision insurance

Education:

- Bachelor's (Preferred)

License/Certification:

- CUSP (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

- San Diego County, CA (Required)

Work Location: In person