Environmental Health & Safety Technician - job 1 of 2

As an Environmental Health & Safety Technician at SpaceX, you will be tasked with ensuring compliance with OSHA, TCEQ, RCRA, EPA, and DOT regulations. This includes conducting workplace safety oversight, monitoring employee exposure to hazards, performing safety surveys, assisting in hazard analysis, and managing hazardous waste. Your role will also involve implementing spill prevention measures and conducting environmental audits.

To qualify for the Environmental Health & Safety Technician role at SpaceX, you need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, you should have a minimum of two years of experience in a related environmental health and safety role. Preferred skills include experience in hazardous waste management, a proactive approach to safety oversight, and strong organizational abilities.

While not strictly required, prior experience in a construction or industrial environment is strongly preferred for the Environmental Health & Safety Technician position at SpaceX. This experience will help you better understand the specific regulations and safety protocols that are critical in such settings.

The Environmental Health & Safety Technician position at SpaceX is not remote and is based in Bastrop, TX. The position may occasionally require overtime and weekend work, so flexibility is essential to manage project demands effectively.

SpaceX offers a competitive compensation package for Environmental Health & Safety Technicians, which includes medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, and paid parental leave. Employees also earn three weeks of paid vacation and have access to additional perks like employee stock purchase plans and various discounts.

When conducting safety inspections, I first familiarize myself with the specific regulations and previous inspection reports to ensure thoroughness. I use clearly defined checklists to evaluate all aspects of safety, including workspace hazards, employee PPE usage, and compliance with safety protocols. Ensuring communication with employees throughout the process is crucial, as their insights can highlight potential issues that are not immediately evident.

In a previous role, I noticed that a storage area had improper stacking of materials, which posed a risk of falling objects. I immediately reported this to my supervisor and collaborated with our safety team to rearrange the area, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations. This proactive response not only mitigated the hazard but also reinforced a culture of safety awareness in the team.

In the event of a chemical spill, I would first ensure the area is evacuated to keep colleagues safe. I would then follow the facility's spill response plan, which involves notifying emergency response teams, containing the spill, and using appropriate spill kits. Documentation of the incident for compliance and future reference is also critical in assessing potential impacts and improving procedures.

To stay updated on environmental regulations and industry best practices, I subscribe to relevant professional journals, attend safety conferences, and participate in webinars related to EHS topics. Networking with other professionals in the field also provides valuable insights and opportunities for knowledge sharing.

One of the most challenging aspects is balancing the regulatory compliance demands with the operational needs of the facility. It's crucial to ensure all safety measures are upheld while also enabling productivity. Effective communication and building strong relationships with team members can help bridge this gap, ensuring that everyone understands the importance of safety without hindering workflow.

When faced with resistance, I would engage in open dialogue to understand their concerns. Educating them on the reasons for the new procedures and how these changes enhance their safety can ease apprehension. Sharing case studies or examples of successful implementations can also provide reassurance and encourage buy-in.

To develop a health and safety training program, I would begin by conducting a needs assessment to identify key areas that require training. Collaborating with various departments, I would structure the program to address specific risks and regulatory requirements. Incorporating hands-on training, simulations, and assessments will ensure the program is engaging and effective in educating employees.

In a manufacturing environment, I believe that gloves, safety goggles, and hard hats are among the most critical pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE). However, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to PPE tailored to specific tasks is essential. This means continuously assessing job hazards to determine appropriate protective measures for employees.

If I found safety regulations not being followed, I would document the observations and address them immediately with the responsible parties. It’s vital to create a supportive environment for reporting such issues without fear of repercussions. I would also work with the team to retrain them on the specific regulations and develop corrective action plans to prevent future non-compliance.

Effective communication regarding safety concerns can be achieved through regular safety meetings that encourage an open dialogue. Utilizing visual aids, safety bulletins, and shared documentation can facilitate clarity. Additionally, fostering a culture that supports reporting concerns without judgment encourages team members to actively participate in maintaining a safe work environment.