Safety Manager - Deckorators (Buffalo, NY)

Deckorators, a brand of UFP Industries, is a leader in composite decking, railing, and outdoor living products. Our Buffalo, New York plant is the newest and flagship facility utilizing our proven and growing Surestone technology, driving innovation in extrusion and polymer manufacturing for the outdoor living market.

Job Summary

The Safety Manager leads all safety programs and compliance activities for the Buffalo plant, ensuring a safe and health-focused environment during both startup and ongoing operations. This role serves as the on-site expert for safety standards, regulatory compliance, employee training, and continuous improvement of workplace safety culture.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to ensure compliance with safe operating procedures, PPE use, and required guarding on equipment and processes.

• Investigate incidents and near misses, identify trends and root causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

• Develop and maintain safety programs, policies, and engagement initiatives that drive a proactive safety culture.

• Lead new-hire safety orientation and ensure all employees understand plant safety expectations and protocols.

• Deliver required safety training including powered industrial truck (forklift) certification and equipment-specific instruction.

• Chair the plant Safety Committee and work collaboratively with leadership on risk reduction strategies.

• Ensure proper staffing and training levels for first aid/CPR responders and maintain required medical and safety supplies.

• Coordinate safety-related audits, including fire inspections and visits from regulatory agencies (OSHA, etc.).

• Manage occupational health programs such as hearing conservation, ergonomics, and restricted duty coordination.

• Maintain OSHA 300 logs and all required safety documentation and reporting.

• Communicate effectively with HR, management, and third-party partners on safety matters, claims, and compliance.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives aligned with company standards and operational excellence objectives.

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support a safe working environment for all employees.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; additional safety coursework or certifications preferred.

• 1-3 years of experience in safety management or manufacturing safety leadership; polymer, plastics, or extrusion environment preferred.

• Working knowledge of OSHA and DOT regulations with the ability to apply them in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and digital documentation tools.

• First Aid and CPR certification required (or must be obtained).

• Strong communication and facilitation skills with a passion for engaging employees at all levels in safety best practices.

Why Deckorators Buffalo?

• Opportunity to build and shape the safety culture of a new flagship plant.

• High visibility role in a growing business with cutting-edge Surestone technology.

• Make a meaningful impact on the health and safety experience for every employee.

Compensation & Benefit Information
Salary Pay Range: $80,000 -$100,000K annually dependent on experience

**pay range may be adjusted depending on cost of living

Bonus/Incentive Pay:

Benefits currently offered to our employees:

• Medical insurance

• Health savings account with company contribution

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• Basic and voluntary life insurance

• Disability insurance

• 401(k) plan with company match

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Stock purchase program with employee discount

• Educational reimbursement

• Wellness programs and challenges

• Other supplemental benefits