Safety Manager

Santa Barbara MTD is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Safety Manager to lead the development and implementation of safety programs across the organization. Reporting to the Chief Safety Officer (CSO), the Safety Manager will ensure compliance with federal, state, and local safety regulations, including CalOSHA and Federal Transit Administration (FTA), while maintaining the health and safety of employees, contractors, passengers, and members of the public. This exempt position plays a key role in policy advisement, decision-making, and safety program leadership, acting as the CSO in their absence. The Safety Manager will lead safety committees, coordinate safety training, and manage safety programs such as the Safety Management System (SMS) and Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP). The candidate will monitor safety data, identify risks, and make recommendations to improve safety outcomes. Collaboration with union representatives and other departments is essential to identify and mitigate safety concerns. Additionally, the Safety Manager will focus on emerging technologies, including fleet electrification, and ensure all staff are trained in identifying and mitigating hazards. 

The ideal candidate for this position will possess a comprehensive understanding of OSHA, CalOSHA, and other relevant safety regulations, with the ability to interpret and apply complex guidelines, especially within the transit and/or transportation industry. The candidate will have a strong background in safety program development, from planning and budgeting to evaluating effectiveness, and will be skilled in risk assessment and loss prevention strategies tailored to transit and/or transportation environments. Expertise in designing and delivering safety training programs and creating role-specific safety protocols is essential. The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable about emerging safety concerns, including fleet electrification and technological advancements, and their impact on safety protocols and employee training. Exceptional communication skills are required to effectively present safety information to various stakeholders, including staff, management, and the Board of Directors. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities will be crucial for managing multiple projects simultaneously. The eligible candidate must demonstrate the ability to analyze safety data, identify risks, and propose solutions to enhance safety practices. The ideal candidate will have proven success in collaborating with cross-functional teams, union representatives, and external stakeholders to advance safety initiatives. Additionally, the candidate will be adept at leading safety committees and fostering a culture of safety throughout the organization.

• At least five years of professional experience in safety management, including a focus on transit safety, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation.  
• A minimum of two years in a leadership role, with experience advising senior management and overseeing safety program implementation.

• Certification as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), or equivalent safety-related certification preferred. Certification, or a relevant certification designated by MTD, must be obtained within one year of hire if not already held.  
• A valid Class C California Driver's License with a clean driving record, or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

Salary : $122,234 - $152,792