Sr. EHS Specialist, Automation & R&D

Job Category: Environmental, Health, Safety & Security

Location: Richmond Hill, Ontario

Req. ID: 238439

Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

The Senior EHS Specialist will play a critical role in developing, implementing, and maintaining Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) programs across Tesla’s automation facility in Ontario and various battery materials R&D sites. This position requires a deep understanding of machine safety, chemical handling, industrial hygiene, and learning systems to foster a culture of safety and compliance. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This role will travel 25% of the time between the Ontario automation facility and battery materials R&D sites as required.

What You’ll Do

• Design, implement, and oversee EHS policies and procedures tailored to the automation facility and R&D sites, ensuring compliance with local, provincial (Ontario), and federal regulations (e.g., OHSA, WHMIS).
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with machine guarding, lockout/tagout (LOTOV), and automation equipment safety standards to protect employees in high-tech manufacturing environments.
• Oversee the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals used in battery materials R&D, maintaining adherence to safety data sheets (SDS) and chemical hygiene plans. Monitor workplace conditions, including air quality, noise levels, and ergonomic factors, to identify and mitigate health risks; recommend controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed.
• Develop and deliver EHS training programs using modern learning systems to educate employees on safety protocols, emergency response, and best practices; continuously improve training effectiveness based on feedback and incident trends.
• Lead investigations into safety events or near-misses, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Partner with engineering, production, and R&D teams to integrate safety into new processes, equipment designs, and experimental workflows.
• Perform regular EHS audits and inspections across facilities, ensuring compliance with Tesla standards and regulatory requirements; collaborate with site leadership to address findings.
• Coordinate emergency response plans, drills, and resources to ensure readiness for potential incidents, including chemical spills or equipment failures.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, or a related field; or equivalent experience. Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) preferred.
• Minimum of 5+ years of EHS experience, preferably in manufacturing, automation, or R&D environments; experience with battery technology or chemical processes is a plus.
• Strong understanding of machine safety standards (e.g., CSA Z432, ISO 13849).
• Expertise in chemical safety, including WHMIS and hazardous materials management.
• Proficiency in industrial hygiene practices (e.g., exposure assessments, ventilation systems).
• Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) or training platforms.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities. Strong communication skills to train diverse teams and influence safety culture. Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to evolving facility needs.

Tesla is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran status and disability status, protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

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