Safety & Compliance Specialist

Overview Ashland Specialty Ingredients, GP is seeking a Safety & Compliance Specialist to join our team in Hopewell, VA. This highly visible role reports to the EHS Center of Excellence and focuses on driving continuous safety improvement, ensuring compliance, and fostering a culture of safety across the organization. Responsibilities Safety Leadership & Engagement : Drive continuous safety improvement through coaching, employee & contractor engagement, and promote adherence to safety procedures. Build strong partnerships with all salaried and hourly employees, including leaders and front‑line supervisors, to improve safety performance and behavior through clear communication, training, and collaborative risk management. Program Implementation & Audits : Implement RC‑14001 and ACC Responsible Care initiatives, lead audits of safe work permits, participate in safety committees, inspections, and maintain a strong field presence (over 50% of time). Incident Investigation & Compliance : Maintain OSHA logs, lead injury investigations using root‑cause analysis, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company standards. Training & Development : Develop and deliver health and safety training (onboarding, refresher courses), coordinate Emergency Response Team training, and support continuing education for EMTs and ECAs. Hazard Identification & Risk Control : Recognize existing and potential hazards, develop site safety procedures, oversee industrial hygiene programs, conduct exposure assessments, ergonomic evaluations, and recommend PPE. Data Analysis & Technical Solutions : Analyze safety performance metrics, approve new chemicals/materials (including SDS review), and provide hands‑on technical solutions for safety issues, programs, and processes. Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree in Safety, Engineering, or related discipline. An AA degree is considered with relevant work experience. Minimum of 2 years of experience in chemical plant operations, OSHA regulations, and safety policies. Prior Emergency Response Team experience (preferably in a chemical manufacturing environment). Ability to respond appropriately during site emergencies, including weekends and callouts. Physical capability to work in a plant environment (walking, climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling). Experience with fire suppression systems in a chemical manufacturing setting. Strong problem‑solving skills to identify critical issues, develop action plans, and foster a positive work environment. Knowledge of cGMP, Train‑the‑Trainer concepts, budgeting, and cost control methods. Contractor management experience. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. and able to travel within Virginia and possibly nationwide. Preferred Skills Certified Safety Professional (CSP) designation or willingness to obtain. OSHA 1910/1926 Outreach Trainer certification. Six Sigma certifications. Prior experience working with regulatory agencies and in a petrochemical plant environment. EEO Statement Ashland is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer for Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled/Gender Identity/Sexual Orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ashland Inc