Job SummaryThe Manager of Safety Technology & Innovation is responsible for leading the evaluation, risk assessment, and governance of emerging technologies, equipment, automation systems, and supplier solutions across the organization. This role ensures all innovations - particularly electrically powered and technology-enabled equipment - comply with applicable regulatory, certification, operational, and internal safety standards prior to approval, pilot, or deployment.
This position serves as a subject matter expert in electrical equipment safety, certification requirements, emerging technology risk management, and operational safety integration. The role partners closely with cross-functional teams including Innovation, Procurement, Culinary, Operations, Food Safety, QA, Supply Chain, and Risk Management to enable innovation while protecting operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and associate safety.
Key ResponsibilitiesTechnology & Equipment Evaluation- Lead safety evaluation and risk assessment of new technologies, foodservice equipment, and automated solutions prior to pilot or deployment opportunities
- Partner with food safety and QA teams to review and approve new equipment and vendors from a safety and compliance perspective
- Collaborate with innovation, procurement, and operational teams to ensure standards are maintained during deployment
Electrical Safety & Certification Compliance- Review and validate electrical equipment for compliance with:
- UL, ETL, and/or other NRTL certifications
- Applicable national and local electrical safety requirements
- Ensure all equipment meets recognized safety certification requirements prior to pilot opportunities or use in operations
- Evaluate electrical design, installation, and operational considerations, including energization risks and safe use conditions
- Provide technical guidance on equipment safety, electrical hazards, and mitigation strategies
Standards & Regulatory Alignment- Interpret and apply relevant safety standards, including:
- UL, ETL, CE, and Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) certification requirements
- OSHA regulations related to electrical safety, machine guarding, energized equipment, and hazard controls
- ASTM, ANSI, NFPA, and other applicable safety and testing standards
- Risk assessment methodologies and equipment hazard analysis processes
- Develop and maintain internal policies and procedures (e.g. Job Safety Analyses) aligned with these standards
- Monitor regulatory and industry trends related to equipment safety, testing standards, and certification requirements
QualificationsEducation & Experience- Bachelor's Degree in Safety Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Health and Safety, or related technical field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Experience evaluating electrical equipment, new technologies, or industrial/foodservice equipment preferred
- Experience working with certification bodies or safety compliance frameworks preferred
- Safety Experience in the Dining, Food Service industry preferred
- OSHA 10 hour or 30-hour training preferred
- Certified Safety Professional or Associate Safety Professional preferred
Skills & Competencies- Working knowledge of:
- UL, ETL, and Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) certification requirements
- ASTM, ANSI, and other applicable equipment testing and safety standards
- OSHA regulations, including requirements for energized equipment, electrical safety, and hazard controls
- Understanding of:
- Electrical systems and equipment risk considerations
- Equipment certification, labeling, and compliance verification processes
- Safe installation, operation, and maintenance of electrically powered equipment
- Strong technical and analytical mindset with ability to evaluate complex equipment risks
- Ability to interpret and apply a variety of laws, rules, and regulations
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Exceptional organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with attention to detail
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to quickly learn Risk Management Information Systems
- Ability to work well with internal and external business partners
