EHS/ESG Manager - Americas
Wood Dale, IL

About Optimas

Optimas is a leading provider of integrated supply chain solutions and engineering support, serving a diverse array of customers across a wide geographic footprint. We deliver fasteners, components, industrial and safety supplies through a network of local teams who understand the operational realities of the markets we serve. This regional focus allows us to provide agile, tailored solutions and a high level of service aligned with our customers’ evolving needs.

Position Overview

The EHS/ESG Manager – Americas is responsible for building, implementing, and leading Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) and Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) programs across the Americas, and reports to the General Counsel.

This role requires a hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves leader who can both develop strategy and execute tactically in a lean environment. This individual will partner closely with Operations, Human Resources and Leadership and will be responsible for scaling both functions. The position will establish foundational programs, drive compliance, and embed a culture of safety and accountability, while also developing ESG reporting and sustainability initiatives aligned with customer and stakeholder expectations.

Core Responsibilities

Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) – Operational Leadership

Build and implement EHS programs, policies, and procedures across distribution centers and manufacturing sites
Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations (OSHA, EPA, state/local) and maintain audit readiness
Establish and manage EHS management systems (ISO 14001, ISO 45001)
Lead all incident investigations (injuries, near misses, environmental events), including root cause analysis and corrective actions
Own OSHA recordkeeping (300/300A/301), regulatory reporting, and documentation
Oversee environmental compliance programs (hazardous materials, waste, stormwater, SPCC, etc.)
Conduct risk assessments, audits, and site evaluations to identify and mitigate hazards
Develop and implement standardized EHS processes, metrics, and reporting across all sites
Partner with our manufacturing plant, distribution centers and office locations to drive accountability for safety performance at the site level
Lead workers’ compensation processes in coordination with HR, including claims and return-to-work programs
Design and deliver EHS training programs and ensure compliance across all locations
Build a scalable EHS infrastructure that supports future growth

ESG – Strategy, Reporting & Customer Interface

Develop and implement an ESG framework appropriate for the business and customer base
Establish ESG metrics, data collection processes, and reporting structures
Lead ESG disclosures, including customer questionnaires, scorecards, and sustainability reporting requests
Partner with commercial and customer teams to support ESG-related requirements and opportunities
Identify and drive initiatives to improve environmental performance (e.g., waste reduction, energy efficiency, emissions awareness)
Coordinate ESG data across functions (Operations, Finance, HR, Supply Chain)
Monitor evolving ESG regulations and customer expectations and translate into actionable plans
Support development of internal ESG policies and governance structures
Serve as the internal subject matter expert for ESG inquiries

Program Build & Leadership

Build both EHS and ESG programs from current state to structured, scalable functions
Prioritize initiatives based on risk, regulatory exposure, and business impact
Balance strategic program development with hands-on execution
Establish clear ownership models between corporate and site-level responsibilities
Develop dashboards and reporting for leadership visibility

Key Competencies

Proven ability to build programs in a lean environment
Strong operational EHS expertise with hands-on execution capability
Ability to translate ESG concepts into practical business processes
High level of ownership, accountability, and urgency
Strong influencing skills across all levels of the organization
Ability to balance compliance rigor with business practicality
Data-driven mindset with strong analytical capabilities

Skills & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental, Health & Safety, Engineering, or related field preferred
7+ years of EHS experience in manufacturing, distribution, or industrial environments
Demonstrated experience building or significantly enhancing EHS programs
Working knowledge of:
- Safety regulations, including OSHA recordkeeping and reporting requirements
- Environmental compliance (EPA and state-level requirements)
- Workers’ compensation processes
- ISO 14001 and ISO 45001
Experience with ESG reporting, sustainability initiatives, or customer ESG requirements preferred
Experience managing incident investigations and driving corrective actions to closure
OSHA 30 certification (or equivalent) preferred
Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results across cross-functional teams, and operate effectively in a lean, fast-paced environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and EHS-related systems

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EHS/ESG Manager