Deputy Chief, Transit Safety

Summary

This position is open until filled.  The first review of applications will begin on July 22, 2025. A resume is required with the online application to be considered for this position. 

Valley Metro exists to Connect Communities and Enhance Lives. We do this by planning, building, operating, and maintaining a safe, regional, multi-modal transportation system to residents of metro Phoenix. From regional bus, streetcar, light rail and paratransit service to alternative commuter solutions, Valley Metro’s mission since 2002 is to develop and operate a network of transit services that now covers 513 square miles! 

The Deputy Chief of Transit Safety supports the Chief of Safety and Security in managing safety initiatives to ensure a secure and efficient transit system for passengers, employees, and the community. This role focuses on operational safety, regulatory compliance, risk management, and fostering a culture of safety excellence. Oversees compliance with the Public Transit Agency Safety Plans (PTASP) for bus and rail operations and serves as the Safety Management System (SMS) Administrator, as required by ADOT State Safety Oversight (SSOA).

Valley Metro is a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in safety management, transportation, engineering, or a related field, and a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in safety management, including at least three (3) years in a leadership or management role within the transportation or transit sector. Demonstrated ability to lead teams, drive safety initiatives, and manage compliance programs is required. Experience in public transportation is highly desirable. 

A master’s degree in a related field is desired. An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position may be considered.

Human Resources reserves the right to call only the most qualified applicants to the selection process.

Licensing/Certification Requirements:

• Valid Arizona driver’s license and the ability to maintain insurability throughout employment.
• Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and/or Transit Safety and Security Program (TSSP) certification desired

Background Investigation:

• Employment is contingent upon the results of a background check.

Examples of Duties / Knowledge & Skills

The following functions are intended to provide a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of this position and are not an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed. Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

Provide leadership and direction to safety staff, overseeing daily operations, performance management, and professional development within the Safety Division.

Oversee the implementation and management of safety initiatives across Valley Metro’s transit system.

Ensure operational safety and compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory standards.

Manage safety programs for both bus and rail services in alignment with Public Transit Agency Safety Plans (PTASP).

Serve as the Safety Management System (SMS) Administrator in compliance with ADOT State Safety Oversight Agency (SSOA) requirements.

Lead efforts to identify, assess, and mitigate safety risks across all modes of transit.

Develop, manage, and monitor the Safety Division’s budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources and compliance with financial policies.

Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to enhance safety protocols and procedures.

Support planning and execution of capital projects by integrating safety risk assessments/hazard analyses and improvements.

Manage and oversee document deliverables to the State Safety Oversight and as necessary for Capital Projects.

Analyze safety performance metrics and use data to drive safety enhancements and reporting.

Develop and implement strategies to reduce workplace injuries, incidents, and liability claims.

Promote and sustain a strong culture of safety excellence throughout the agency.

Monitor emerging safety risks and ensure proactive responses to maintain system-wide safety.

Ensure timely and effective implementation of SMS elements to avoid operational and compliance delays.

Knowledge and Skills Required: 

• Knowledge of transit safety regulations, standards, and best practices, including Public Transit Agency Safety Plans (PTASP) and Safety Management System (SMS) requirements.
• Understanding risk management principles and safety compliance procedures for both bus and rail operations.
• Demonstrates leadership skills with the ability to manage teams, foster a culture of safety, and lead safety initiatives across the organization.
• Strong analytical skills to assess safety data, identify risks, and implement effective mitigation strategies.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to address safety challenges and improve safety performance metrics.
• Strong communication skills to interact with internal and external stakeholders and clearly convey safety messages at all levels.
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate safety into capital projects and system development.
• Strong project coordination and time management skills.
• General understanding of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations.
• Ability to engage effectively with teams and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with major capital projects and general NEPA processes.
• Commitment to continuous improvement.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

Work is performed primarily in a standard office environment, with frequent visits to field locations such as transit facilities, maintenance yards, and project sites. The position requires mobility to walk, stand, sit, and operate standard office equipment and a motor vehicle. Occasional lifting of materials or equipment up to 25 pounds may be necessary. The role may involve exposure to variable weather conditions and potentially stressful situations related to safety incidents and emergency response coordination.
Vision, hearing, and speech are required to communicate effectively in person, over the telephone, and via computer. Reasonable accommodation may be made for otherwise qualified individuals who require and request such accommodation.

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• Valley Metro