Chief Safety Officer

Salary range is $210k to $310k, with a midpoint of $260k.  New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.

Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including:

• Health Benefits: We offer two choices of medical plans, a dental plan, and a vision plan all at no cost for employee coverage; comprehensive benefits for employees and eligible dependents, including a spouse or domestic partner.
• Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Retirement Plans: 401a – 10% of employee contribution with a 12% match by Sound Transit; 457b – up to IRS maximum (employee only contribution).
• Paid Time Off: Employees accrue 25 days of paid time off annually with increases at four, eight and twelve years of service. Employees at the director level and up accrue additional days. We also observe 12 paid holidays and provide up to 2 paid floating holidays and up to 2 paid volunteer days per year.
• Parental Leave: 12 weeks of parental leave for new parents.
• Pet Insurance.
• ORCA Card: All full-time employees will receive an ORCA card at no cost.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Sound Transit will pay up to $5,000 annually for approved tuition expenses.
• Inclusive Reproductive Health Support Services.
• Compensation Practices: We offer competitive salaries based on market rates and internal equity. In addition to compensation and benefits, you’ll find that we provide work-life balance, opportunities for professional development and recognition from your colleagues.

GENERAL PURPOSE:

Under the general direction of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and supported by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) for Agency Oversight, the Chief Safety Officer (CSO) has the authority and responsibility for day-to-day implementation and operation of the Agency's safety division, safety programs, and the safety management system (SMS). This position reports to the Chief Executive Officer to ensure regulatory compliance and quick escalation and resolution of safety-related issues and risks. 

The CSO exhibits a personal commitment to safety and is a passionate advocate for the safety of our passengers and our workforce. This position is responsible for leading a progressive and proactive vision of safety across the Agency and our transit system. They translate the safety vision into strategy and provide guidance and direction to agency and division leaders on program implementation, government regulations, reporting requirements, and standards of practice in five safety areas: Emergency Management, Operational Safety/Hazard Management, Safety and Security Certification, Construction Safety, and Employee Health and Safety. 

The CSO oversees division leaders responsible for day-to-day management of safety programs; develops and implements plans, procedures, and program activities associated with safety and health assurance; oversees compliance with federal and state rail and bus safety requirements; coordinates compliance with safety and security certification requirements for new rail operations and extensions; and serves as agency liaison with various municipal departments and local, state and federal agencies; ensures safety programs, policies and procedures are aligned with Agency values. The Chief Safety Officer ensures that a safety culture exists in Agency decision-making to continuously improve the safety of our riders, employees, contractors, key stakeholders, and the communities we serve. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The following duties are a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

• Drives performance through influence, relationship building and rational thinking, creating an agency-wide culture of excellence that maximizes internal and external safety. Sets clear and challenging goals for internal-facing departments ensuring these functions collaborate and create efficient cross-functional processes and teams to work effectively while addressing the agency’s mission. 
• Develop relationships with internal and external colleagues to be seen as a valued and collaborative partner in the Agency’s business.
• Supports the CEO and agency leadership to identify key