OverviewThe Safety Manager - Special Projects serves as a hands-on, high-impact safety leader supporting operating divisions during Safety Manager vacancies, start-ups, and critical safety initiatives.
This role is responsible for implementing safety and training programs and procedures in compliance with state and federal regulations, corporate policies, and client requirements, while quickly stabilizing and improving division safety performance.
The position requires extensive travel and the ability to rapidly integrate into diverse operating environments, set expectations, and drive immediate results.
ResponsibilitiesMain Responsibilities:
Division Support & Gap Coverage- Provide interim safety leadership for divisions experiencing Safety Manager gaps or performance challenges.
- Ensure continuity of compliance, reporting, training, and safety programs.
- Partner with General Managers and regional leadership to restore safety performance and accountability.
Start-Ups & Special Projects- Assist with safety readiness for new contract start-ups, including:
O Program implementation
O Training execution
O Regulatory compliance setup
- Support special projects, audits, and corrective action plans across multiple divisions.
- Deploy into high-risk or underperforming operations and drive rapid stabilization.
Compliance Programs & Policy Management- Serve as a subject matter expert in OSHA, DOT, CDL, EPA, and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Ensure all safety manuals, policies, and procedures are current, compliant, and effectively implemented.
- Oversee successful completion of corporate, client, and regulatory audits.
- Ensure timely and accurate incident reporting, investigation, and documentation.
- Support safety-related disciplinary actions and corrective actions where appropriate.
Safety Programs & Risk Management- Lead execution of DriveCam and safety technology programs, ensuring data is analyzed and action plans are implemented.
- Review all vehicle, passenger, and employee incidents for cause, preventability, and trend identification.
- Maintain all incident details, supporting information, and investigation documentation in the Riskonnect system.
- Oversee safety incentive programs and ensure consistent application across locations.
- Use data and audits to identify risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Training Programs & Safety Culture- Ensure all operators meet training and certification requirements, including full execution of Operator Excellence Training.
- Support and oversee classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, including:
O Defensive driving
O Passenger loading/unloading and securement
O Emergency procedures and incident response
- Ensure consistent use of training systems, with timely and accurate documentation of completed training in the OET App.
- Reinforce a strong, unified safety culture across operations, maintenance, and training teams.
Leadership & Collaboration- Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, HR, and Risk Management.
- Provide expertise in hiring and development of safety personnel as needed.
- Serve as a visible safety leader, modeling accountability and driving engagement.
- Coach and mentor local teams to sustain performance after assignment completion
QualificationsQualifications and Experience- Five (5)+ years of experience in transportation safety or related field.
- Strong knowledge of OSHA, DOT, CDL, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Experience in multi-location support, start-ups, or turnaround environments preferred.
- Experience with driver training programs and safety technology systems.
- Valid driver's license (CDL preferred) with acceptable driving record.
- Transit safety certifications, such as TSSP, are preferred.
Skills / Competencies- Ability to step into new environments and lead immediately.
- Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret safety data and drive action.
- Proven leadership and influence in matrixed environments.
- Effective communication, coaching, and public speaking/training abilities.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure.
- High adaptability, resilience, and accountability.
- Ability to manage multiple assignments across locations simultaneously.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and safety systems/tools.
