Safety & Training Specialist

Waterloo, IAFull-timePosted Aug 4, 2026

Job Posting:

Since 1953, Ferguson has been a source of quality supplies for a variety of industries. Together We Build Better infrastructure, better homes and better businesses. We exist to make our customers’ complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. We proactively solve problems, adapt and grow to continuously serve our customers, communities and each other. Ferguson, a Fortune 500 company, is proud to provide best-in-class products, service and capabilities across the following industries: Commercial/Mechanical, Facilities Supply, Fire and Fabrication, HVAC, Industrial, Residential Trade, Residential Building and Remodel, Waterworks and Residential Digital Commerce. Ferguson has approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations. Ferguson is a community of proud associates who operate with the shared purpose of building something meaningful. You will build a career that you are proud of, at a company you can believe in.

We are currently seeking the right individual to fill an immediate need for a Safety & Training Specialist based in our Waterloo Distribution Center. This role is responsible for leading associate training initiatives while fostering a strong culture of safety throughout the distribution center. The Safety & Training Specialist will ensure that associates are trained, certified, and operating in compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities:

Safety Leadership & Compliance:

Develop, implement, and manage best safety practices, programs, and procedures.
Administer safety training programs and health and safety initiatives for distribution center associates.
Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and Safe Operating Guidelines.
Conduct safety inspections and monitor the work environment to ensure facilities, equipment, and work practices meet safety requirements.
Identify workplace hazards, implement corrective actions, and proactively address safety concerns.
Document all safety incidents and assist with accident investigations, ensuring compliance with reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
Compile and track safety metrics, including incident rates, restricted duty cases, and lost-time claims.
Oversee injured worker treatment plans and communicate with workers' compensation carriers to support case management through resolution.
Coordinate and lead Safety Committee meetings, including agenda preparation, communication, and meeting documentation.
Partner closely with the Regional Territory Safety Manager to align safety initiatives and maintain consistent safety practices.
Administer and support the 30-60-90 Day Health & Safety Onboarding Program.
Coach, mentor, and provide real-time feedback to associates regarding safe work practices.
Perform routine housekeeping and safety-related tasks to maintain a safe work environment.

Training & Associate Development:

Lead new hire orientation and communicate training schedules and expectations.
Conduct and facilitate on-the-job training programs for distribution center associates.
Train associates on warehouse operations, safety requirements, WMS processes, and standard operating procedures.
Lead all Powered Industrial Truck (PIT) training, including initial certifications, recertifications, evaluations, and accident retraining.
Develop and deliver recurring safety and compliance training programs.
Audit associate performance and work processes to ensure adherence to training standards, SOPs, and safety requirements.
Maintain accurate training records and certification documentation.
Audit departmental training processes to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Collaborate with Operations Managers and department leaders to identify training opportunities and drive continuous improvement.
Provide coaching, guidance, and mentorship to associates to support skill development and performance.
Develop training materials, presentations, and learning content to enhance associate engagement and knowledge retention.

Qualifications:

2+ years of training, safety, or related experience in a warehouse, distribution, or supply chain environment preferred.
Bachelor's degree or a minimum of 3 years of safety-specific experience preferred.
Experience developing and delivering training programs for adult learners.
Experience operating and training associates on Powered Industrial Equipment (PIT), including forklifts and pallet jacks.
Knowledge of OSHA regulations, workplace safety programs, and compliance requirements.
OSHA certification preferred.
Ability to conduct Job Safety Analyses (JSA) and identify workplace hazards.
Demonstrated success implementing and supporting safety programs and initiatives.
Strong presentation, facilitation, and instructional skills with the ability to engage audiences at all levels.
Experience creating training materials, PowerPoint presentations, and instructional content preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and Power BI.
Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, coaching, and customer service skills.
Ability to influence peers and leaders while fostering a positive culture of safety and continuous learning.
Self-starter with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Willingness to work varied shifts, including occasional nights and weekends, based on business and safety needs.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds and work in a warehouse environment with varying conditions.
Passion for safety, associate development, and operational excellence.

At Ferguson, we care for each other. We value our well-being just as much as our hard work. We are committed to a holistic approach towards benefits plans and programs that support the mental, physical and financial well-being of our associates. Our competitive offering not only includes benefits like health, dental, vision, paid time off, life insurance and a 401(k) with a company match, but our associates also enjoy additional meaningful and inclusive enhancements that are adaptable to their diverse situations and needs, including mental health coverage, gender affirming and family building benefits, paid parental leave, associate discounts, community involvement opportunities and more!

Pay Range:

$2,921.40 - $9,927.50

Estimated Ranges displayed are Monthly for Salaried roles OR Hourly for all other roles.

This role is Bonus or Incentive Plan eligible.

Ferguson complies with all wage regulations. The starting wage may be higher in certain locations based on local or state wage requirements.

The Company is an equal opportunity employer as well as a government contractor that shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a), which prohibits discrimination against qualified protected Veterans and the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(A), which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability.

Ferguson Enterprises, LLC. is an equal employment employer F/M/Disability/Vet/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation Information