Project Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The Project Safety Lead – Energy is responsible for supporting and overseeing project safety operations across assigned renewable energy and utility-scale solar construction projects. This role plans, implements, audits, and monitors project-specific safety programs to ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and owner safety standards.

The Project Safety Lead works closely with project teams, subcontractors, and the Corporate Health & Safety Director to proactively identify hazards, reinforce safe work practices, conduct training, and support a strong safety culture throughout all phases of construction. This role requires regular onsite presence and travel between active project locations based on operational needs.

Travel Expectations: This is a traveling, field-based role requiring onsite presence at assigned project locations for the duration of project activities. Travel throughout Michigan and other states is required based on project assignments, with occasional travel to Roncelli’s headquarters in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Candidates should include their project list, resume, and preference for travel when applying for the role. Actual compensation within the posted range will be based on qualifications, experience, and overall alignment with the role requirements.

Why Join Team Roncelli

Competitive Pay & Benefits: We offer market-based salaries and a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and a 401K with match and profit sharing.

Work-Life Balance: Employees receive generous PTO, sick days, paid holidays, fully paid maternity leave, paternity leave, and flexible schedules.

Growth Opportunities: We support professional development, mentorship, and career advancement.

Safety Commitment: Safety is central to our culture, ensuring your expertise and contributions are valued and protected.

Role and Responsibilities

Safety Program Implementation & Oversight

• Support implementation and enforcement of corporate safety policies, site-specific safety plans, and owner safety requirements on assigned projects.

•  Assist in the development and execution of detailed site-specific safety programs, orientations, and safety procedures.

• Monitor project activities to ensure compliance with OSHA, MIOSHA, environmental, and client-specific safety requirements.

• Conduct regular jobsite safety inspections, audits, observations, and hazard assessments.

• Observe, mitigate, and report unsafe conditions and behaviors through field corrections, coaching, safety stand downs, and work stoppages when necessary.

• Collaborate closely with project teams and the Corporate Health & Safety Director regarding project safety performance and corrective actions.

Training & Workforce Safety Support

• Conduct safety orientations, toolbox talks, stand downs, and safety training sessions for employees and subcontractors.

• Assist project teams and field leadership in promoting a proactive safety culture across all project operations.

• Support development, review, and tracking of Pre-Task Plans (PTPs), Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), and other safety documentation for Roncelli trades and subcontractors.

• Review subcontractor safety plans and high-risk activity procedures including:

• Crane and rigging activities

• Steel erection

• Excavation and trenching

•  Confined space entry

• Fall protection and rescue plans

• Lockout/Tagout procedures

• Hot work activities

• Aerial lift and scaffold operations

Incident Investigation & Compliance Documentation

• Investigate accidents, incidents, near misses, and safety violations and prepare detailed, accurate reports.

• Document unsafe conditions, corrective actions, inspections, and compliance activities in accordance with company procedures.

• Maintain required safety records, reports, logs, and documentation for project and regulatory compliance.

• Assist with tracking safety metrics, corrective actions, and follow-up activities.

Regulatory & Owner Coordination

• Lead or support safety walkthroughs with owners, insurance representatives, and regulatory agencies.

• Serve as a safety resource for project leadership, subcontractors, and field personnel.

• Coordinate with project teams regarding safety compliance, permits, inspections, and owner-specific safety expectations.

Project & Team Support

• Support project teams with additional operational and safety-related tasks as assigned.

• Assist with continuous improvement initiatives related to safety programs, training, and field operations.
  • Promote teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and safe work practices throughout all assigned projects.

Other Duties

• This job description is not intended to cover all duties or responsibilities. Responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs.

Skills and Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of construction and industrial safety practices, regulations, and compliance requirements.

• Understanding of renewable energy, solar, and utility-scale construction operations preferred.

• Ability to identify hazards, evaluate risks, and implement corrective actions in fast-paced construction environments.

• Strong verbal communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with field personnel and subcontractors.

• Ability to conduct training, orientations, and presentations for large groups.

• Strong organizational, documentation, and incident investigation skills.

• Experience with construction safety software and platforms such as Procore, HammerTech, SharePoint, or similar systems preferred.

• Ability to work independently while maintaining strong collaboration with project and corporate leadership.

• Knowledgeable in company policies, procedures, and project-specific safety requirements.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety, Environmental Health & Safety, Construction Management, or equivalent industry experience may be considered.

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of construction and/or industrial safety experience required. Renewable energy, utility, or solar construction experience strongly preferred.

• Certifications: OSHA 500 preferred; OSHA 30 required or ability to obtain; MIOSHA certifications preferred; CPR and First Aid preferred.

• Experience supporting active construction projects with multiple subcontractors and high-risk work activities preferred.

• Screening Requirements: Pre-employment required; background check, including driving record, as required by client.

• Valid Driver’s License Required

• Must be able to pass a Motor Vehicle Record (no serious driving violations in the last 5 years).

Working Environment and Physical Requirements

This role operates primarily on active construction sites and requires extensive travel between project locations. The employee must be able to walk active jobsites, navigate uneven terrain, climb ladders and stairs, and work safely around heavy equipment, energized systems, and ongoing construction activities while wearing required PPE. Work may occur in varying outdoor weather conditions including heat, cold, wind, rain, and dust. The position requires prolonged periods of standing, walking, driving, and computer use, as well as occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds. Compliance with all company safety policies and project-specific requirements is mandatory.

Roncelli, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind and are committed to providing a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Roncelli are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other status protected by applicable law. Roncelli complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding nondiscrimination and equal employment opportunity.