The mission of Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District is to enhance the mobility of South Coast residents, commuters, and visitors by offering safe, appealing, equitable, environmentally responsible, and fiscally sound transit service. Great people are our most important asset and are essential to fulfilling our mission. MTD is committed to our community and we are looking for people who share our passion for service and enhancing the mobility of our riders. Salary, wage, and benefit packages are designed to be competitive and attract and retain a highly qualified and motivated workforce.
Full-Time, Exempt
$126,146.00 to $157,682.00 Annually
Make an Impact. Lead with Purpose. Drive Safety Forward.
Are you mission-driven and ready to make a real difference in your community? MTD is hiring a Safety Manager to help lead safety initiatives that support our mission: to provide safe, appealing, equitable, and environmentally responsible transit services to Santa Barbara’s South Coast.
In this vital role, you will help implement and oversee safety systems that protect our passengers, employees, and the public—while partnering across departments to support MTD’s culture of safety and ensure safety is embedded in everything we do.
What You’ll Do:
Lead and enhance our Safety Management System (SMS)
Advance safety processes through the Public Transit Agency Safety Plan (PTASP)
Contribute to development and maintenance of Emergency Preparedness and business recovery programs
Design and conduct safety education and training programs, including around industry emerging technologies and battery electrification
Collaborate with facilities and capital projects teams to ensure State of Good Repair of agency assets related to safety
Gain valuable experience with environmental compliance.
Help foster a proactive, safety-first culture across the agency
Why Join SB MTD?
Medical, Dental & Vision coverage (minimal employee monthly premiums)
401(k) with a 10% employer contribution (not a match—a full contribution)
Paid vacation, holidays, and paid days off (PDO)
Free bus passes for employees and dependents
A supportive, collaborative workplace that values innovation, initiative, and impact
If you’re ready to bring your skills to a purpose-driven agency making a difference every day, and experience an exciting and fulfilling career, apply now by submitting an application, resume, cover letter, and analytical writing sample. For additional information on the position, please see the job brochure.
This recruitment is open until filled. First review of candidates will be on March 30, 2026. The District will move forward with interviews ASAP via virtual format. Final interviews will be conducted in person at SB MTD Main Offices in Santa Barbara, CA.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education
Associates Degree or Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Risk Management, Environmental Health, or a related field from an accredited institution.
Experience
• 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.
Certifications
• Certification as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), or equivalent safety-related certification preferred. Certification 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.