Environmental Health and Safety Director

MERIEUX NUTRISCIENCES As a trusted partner, our Public Health mission is to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Throughout our global network in 27 countries, we offer to our customers a wide range of testing and innovative solutions dedicated to preventing health risks related to food, environment and consumer goods. External growth has been a key pillar of our history with more than 40 acquisitions completed in the last 10 years.

Chicago – Regular

YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE

We are looking for an Environmental Health and Safety Director at 401 N Michigan Avenue, Ste. 1400, Chicago, IL 60611 USA. Your mission will be to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of comprehensive safety, health, and environmental programs across the organization. This role ensures a consistent “Safety First” culture, drives the achievement of injury‑free workplace objectives, and maintains full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.

The director collaborates with cross‑functional leaders to minimize risk, reduce incidents, and promote a proactive, sustainable approach to EHS management that safeguards employees, operations, and the environment.

YOUR PROFILE

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree from a four‑year college or university with a concentration in EHS preferred.
• 5+ years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong working knowledge of safety and environmental regulations and operational work practices.
• Strong analysis, problem‑solving, influencing, partnering, attention to detail and communication competencies.
• Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office applications, and online research tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, solid planning and organizational abilities, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience developing training materials, tools, and work instructions to support health and safety initiatives.
• Ability to stay current on Occupational Health & Safety developments, conduct timely problem‑solving and research, and make informed recommendations to improve policies and procedures.

Qualifications Desired

• Competency in OSHA and Health Canada standards such as CCOHS and/or BCRSP; EPA.
• Workers compensation program management experience.
• Established and accomplished safety program management.
• Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks in both U.S. and Canadian jurisdictions, including OSHA, EPA, HAZWOPER, and Health Canada regulations.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Design and implement an EHS strategy and tactical plan that enables a “Safety First” culture and “Zero Harm” results.
• Provide leadership to facility safety personnel and provide periodic reports and recommendations to the Executive Safety Council.
• Develop and maintain EHS systems and implement a program of both comprehensive, as well as focused, EHS audits to ensure that facilities are adhering to all regulations, corporate requirements, and facility best practices.
• Lead investigation of accidents, incidents, and near misses to identify causes and to determine how such accidents can be prevented in the future.
• Compile and submit required OSHA / Health Canada accident reports.
• Inspect and evaluate workplace environments, equipment, and practices to ensure compliance with safety standards and government regulations.
• Conduct safety training and education programs and demonstrate the use of safety equipment.
• Collaborate with key staff to institute control and remedial measures for hazardous and potentially hazardous conditions or equipment.
• Assist management in development and reporting of EHS performance metrics to facilitate continuous, ongoing improvement of the EHS efforts and results.

Assists Other Employees in Accomplishment of Company Goals

• Participate in and complete company‑required training programs.
• Participate in EHS initiatives as set forth by the company.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Maintain ethical conduct and compliance with the Code of Conduct.

Communication

The incumbent interacts frequently with cross‑functional departments and visits laboratory personnel to present instruction on EHS programs. The incumbent may also interact with third‑party benefit safety companies such as the National Safety Council.

Job Competencies

• Managing with influence: Guiding and inspiring others to achieve goals through persuasion.
• Change management: Application of a structure or process for transition or transformation of an organization.
• Effective communication: The process of exchanging information, ideas and thoughts clearly.
• Team collaboration: Working well with colleagues.
• Analytical skills: Evaluating data to improve EHS programs and outcomes.
• Problem solving: Identifying and assessing potential hazards.
• Technical proficiency: Understanding industry and regulatory standards.
• Time management: Effective use of time.
• Active listening: Listening to employee concerns and feedback to address safety issues.

Success Factors

• Effective safety audits.
• Compliance with company SOPs, programs and regulatory standards.
• Successful implementation of safety initiatives, reducing workers’ compensation.
• Positive feedback from involved parties.
• Continuous process improvements of EHS processes.
• Strong collaboration with productive work teams.
• Timely delivery of projects and meeting deadlines.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The position works in an office environment with occasional laboratory visits. The role requires extensive use of a computer and written communication. The incumbent may spend extended periods sitting and occasionally lift heavy boxes up to 25 pounds.

Travel

Frequent travel to U.S. and Canada laboratory locations; willingness and desire to travel at least 50% of the time to company facilities.

Compensation Package Overview

Compensation range: $125,000 – $145,000 annual salary USD; bonus up to 15% based on performance.

Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) package.
• Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.

Why Join Us?

• Contribute to an inspiring Public Health purpose supported by long‑term and visionary shareholders.
• Impact our strategic pillars built on 50 years of experience and expertise.
• Become part of a community of enthusiastic and skilled people who co‑build together.
• Be welcomed in a diverse, open‑minded environment.
• Grow in an international group of more than 8,200 team members with learning and sharing opportunities.

Ready for the journey? To apply please click on the “Apply now” button.