System Safety Specialist - Safety Engineering

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA’s core values are built around safety, service, equity, and sustainability and each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed.

Job Summary

The System Safety Specialist - Safety Engineering will be responsible for the participation, auditing, and monitoring of Safety and Security Certification activities performed by Capital Programs and Engineering and Maintenance (Operations) on the MBTA system, as well as Transit-Oriented Development projects that affect MBTA operations.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Participate in project meetings and analyze design reviews of technical engineering specifications and plans through evaluation of new and existing projects as part of the MBTA's Safety & Security Certification Program.
• Participate in the review and approval of proposed changes to safety critical systems and elements as well as potential safety hazards and make recommendations to align with the Safety & Security Certification Program.
• Monitor and report project compliance with the MBTA Safety & Security Certification Program Plan (SSCPP).
• Monitor rules and best practices to all proposed changes, both physical and operational, to MBTA systems including operations, processes, administrative policies and procedures, rules, infrastructure, vehicles, and training that are expected to have an impact on system safety.
• Document certification progress and input data into MBTA tracking systems for project history, retrieval and distribution of information ensuring that all appropriate documentation is updated when system safety or safety critical changes are made to vehicles, processes, policies, and infrastructure within the MBTA system.
• Assist in facilitating and completing safety certifications of MBTA projects as assigned.
• Work collaboratively with MBTA managers, supervisors, and employees to identify and mitigate any known or discovered hazards in a timely manner.
• Verify closure of all audit findings through Corrective Action Plan reports.
• Drive a company or personal vehicle to visit/inspect work sites and to assist at emergencies and/or events, as needed.
• Participate in the review of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as well as other related safety equipment through the audit process while in the field.
• Perform night and weekend duty response in rotation with other MBTA Safety staff. Respond either directly or through others, to emergencies twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• Adhere to the rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable) and policies of the Authority including the EEO, anti-discrimination and anti-harassment and anti-retaliation policies.
• Perform all other duties and projects that may be assigned.

Supervision

• No direct reports.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Four (4) years of relevant experience in engineering, construction, or infrastructure and/or system design.
• Relevant experience in transportation safety, vehicle maintenance, and/or technical engineering plan development.
• Documented relevant safety training courses such as those provided by the Transportation Safety Institute, National Transit Institute, OSHA, or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license in accordance with MBTA policy.
• Effective organizational, analytical, multi-tasking, time management and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and report writing skills.
• Ability to complete, apply, and adhere to concepts in safety training including but not limited to SMS Fundamentals, ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 as well as courses offered on websites hosted by MassDOT, FEMA, and TSI within the first month of employment.
• Ability to complete a Public Transportation Safety Certification Training Program (PTSCTP) within three (3) years of employment.
• Ability to undertake several projects simultaneously and follow through on each project to completion.
• The ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and database applications.
• The ability to pass background screenings and the MBTA's medical requirements, including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screening.
• The ability to effectively communicate with regulatory agencies, community organizations, and others on technical and sensitive matters.
• Ability to provide internal/external customers with courteous and professional customer experience.
• The ability to work with a diverse workforce.

Substitutions Include

• A High School Diploma or GED with an additional seven (7) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• An associate degree from an accredited institution an additional three (3) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• A master’s degree in a related subject substitute for two (2) years of general experience.
• A nationally recognized certification, or statewide/professional certification in a related field substitutes for one year of experience.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Engineering degree (vehicle, civil, structural, mechanical or electrical).
• Two (2) years of experience in mechanical, electrical, structural, or civil engineering.
• Project Management Professional (PMP).
• Understanding of OSHA/DLS Regulations, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and/or DPU regulations, knowledge of American Public Transportation Association (APTA) standards, and/or experience conducting training.