itle: Senior EHS Engineer

Location: Libertyville, IL

Hire Type: Direct Hire | Full Time

Compensation: $110,000–$130,000 per year + 10% annual bonus

Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) Engineer to support the launch of a new, state-of-the-art medical device manufacturing facility in Libertyville, Illinois. This individual will serve as the sole EHS leader on site, playing a critical role in establishing safety culture, systems, and regulatory compliance from the ground up.

During facility startup, this role will be highly tactical and floor-focused. As operations scale, the position is expected to transition into a leadership role, providing strategic leadership and building the long-term EHS function for the site.

This advanced manufacturing environment will feature cutting-edge robotics, high-speed automation, and cleanroom production, offering a unique opportunity to shape safety programs within a next-generation facility.

Key Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and continuously improve environmental, health, and safety programs to ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations

Partner with engineering, operations, and facilities teams on equipment design, installation, fire prevention, and safe manufacturing practices

Review plans and specifications for new machinery and automation to verify appropriate safety controls are incorporated

Perform routine plant inspections to identify hazards, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive corrective actions

Define requirements for PPE and machine safeguarding; support design, build, and installation of safety devices

Lead safety training programs, emergency preparedness, and employee awareness initiatives

Investigate incidents and near-miss events, determine root cause, and implement preventive

measures

Conduct industrial hygiene activities, including air quality monitoring and exposure

assessments

Serve as subject matter expert for ergonomics, hazardous materials, chemical safety, and fire protection

Manage audits, regulatory reporting, workers’ compensation processes, OSHA logs, and return-to-work programs

Establish foundational EHS systems and processes that will scale as the facility grows

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental, Health & Safety, Engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent experience)Proven EHS experience within a manufacturing environment

Demonstrated ability to work hands-on in startup or greenfield settings

Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations, industrial safety practices, and environmental compliance

Experience in medical device, pharmaceutical, or cleanroom manufacturing preferred

Ability to influence cross-functional teams and build a proactive safety culture

Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills

Willingness to grow into an EHS Manager role as the site expands

Why Join Us?

Lead EHS for a brand-new, technologically advanced manufacturing facility

Clear path to EHS leadership positions

High-visibility role with meaningful impact on employee safety and operational excellence

Competitive compensation, annual bonus, and long-term growth opportunity

Sterling Engineering

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