Description

As employees of a farmer-owned cooperative, we come to work every day trying to honor the tireless effort and care these farming families put in every day, all day, 365 days a year. Our farmer-owners tend to think in generations, with some of our farms being run by the same families for over a century. We carry this approach into our business, knowing that each and every one of us makes a difference in allowing these generational traditions to continue, taking pride in knowing that we nourish our friends, neighbors, nation, and even the world with healthy and delicious dairy products. Our products include milk, flavored milk, yogurt, dip, sour cream, cottage cheese, and ice cream mix marketed under the Upstate Farms , Bison , Milk for Life , and Intense Milk brands.  

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Safety Intern to join our Safety team. This internship offers hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to safety initiatives at one of our Buffalo area plants. The Safety Intern will work closely with the plant Safety Manager to evaluate safety processes, ensure regulatory compliance, assist with updating and maintaining our Safety Data Sheet (SDS) databases, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This role will also support the completion and documentation of Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) and other safety-related tasks.

 Full-time Opportunity (40hrs a week). Monday-Friday. Start date beginning of June, end date end of August.

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Collaborate with Plant Safety Managers:

• Work directly with plant safety managers to evaluate daily safety tasks and processes.
• Assist in identifying safety hazards, risks, and areas for improvement.
• Help develop and implement corrective actions for identified safety concerns.

2. SDS Online Management:

• Review and update Safety Data Sheets (SDS) across various chemical materials.
• Ensure the SDS Online system is complete, up-to-date, and accessible to employees.

3. Chemical Inventory Management:

• Assist with conducting thorough chemical inventories at plant site.
• Ensure all chemicals used at the plant are accurately cataloged and the SDS online database is aligned with physical inventory.
• Verify that all chemicals are clearly labeled and stored according to regulatory guidelines.

4. Job Safety Analysis (JSA):

• Assist in completing and documenting Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) for various tasks and processes within the plant.
• Review existing JSAs and suggest updates as necessary.
• Ensure that JSAs are properly stored and accessible for employees to follow safety procedures.

5. Safety Audits and Inspections:

• Assist the Safety team with regular safety audits and inspections.
• Identify potential safety hazards and work with the team to recommend improvements.
• Support the documentation of findings and corrective actions.

6. Compliance Tasks:

• Support the completion of routine compliance checks to ensure all safety procedures are being followed.
• Assist in the preparation and maintenance of documentation required for regulatory compliance (e.g., OSHA, EPA, local regulations).
• Track and report safety metrics, such as accident reports, near-miss incidents, and safety training records.

7. Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Gather and analyze data related to safety incidents, hazards, and compliance activities.
• Help generate reports on safety performance and progress toward safety goals.

8. General Administrative Support:

• Assist in organizing safety meetings and documentation.
• Support the safety team with administrative tasks related to HSE activities.

Qualifications: 

• Currently pursuing a degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong interest in safety management and workplace safety practices.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Prior experience or coursework related to safety, OSHA standards, or chemical safety is a plus.
• Ability to lift up to [X] pounds and perform tasks related to plant safety inspections and inventories.

Benefits: 

• Gain hands-on experience in the health and safety field.
• Work closely with experienced safety professionals.
• Develop skills in regulatory compliance and safety management systems.
• Opportunity to learn about chemical safety, SDS management, and safety audits.
• [Additional perks such as networking opportunities, potential full-time offers, etc.]

Pay: $15.50/hr.