Safety Coordinator

The Metropolitan Opera; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Metropolitan Opera in New York is seeking a Safety Coordinator responsible for coordinating safety measures and supporting rehearsals, technical operations, and events. This role demands a detail-oriented individual with knowledge of OSHA regulations and exceptional organizational skills.

The ideal candidate will have 2–4 years of relevant experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in physically active environments. The annual salary ranges from $70,000 to $85,000, and teamwork is emphasized in the fast-paced performing arts setting.

Qualifications

• 2–4 years of experience in Occupational Health & Safety or a related support role.
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and workplace safety practices.
• Experience with documentation, reporting, and administrative tracking.

Responsibilities

• Provide on-site safety support during rehearsals and performances.
• Assist with routine inspections of equipment and workspaces.
• Document incident details and maintain accurate safety records.

Skills

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Organizational Skills

OSHA Knowledge

Microsoft Office Proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety or related field

Job description

The Safety Coordinator reports to the Met Opera’s Director of Safety. This role provides administrative, coordination, and observational support across all aspects of the Met’s safety function. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to operate effectively in a fast-paced performing arts environment, demonstrating sound judgment, professionalism, and strong follow-through.

Primary Responsibilities

Production & Rehearsal Safety Support

• Provide on-site safety support during rehearsals, technical rehearsals, load-ins, load-outs, changeovers, and select performances.
• Assist with pre-rehearsal safety walkthroughs led by the Director of Safety or designated staff.
• Observe and document potential hazards related to scenery, automation, rigging, stage effects, lifts, and moving elements.
• Support communication of safety considerations to Stage Management, Production, Technical Directors, and department staff.
• Escalate identified risks or concerns to the Director of Safety or appropriate personnel.

Hazard Identification & Risk Management

• Assist with routine inspections of equipment, workspaces, and operations.
• Support the preparation of Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and risk assessments.
• Track corrective actions and follow-up items to ensure timely resolution.
• Maintain organized hazard logs, inspection records, and related documentation.

Incident Documentation & Reporting

• Assist in gathering information related to incidents and near-miss events.
• Document incident details, including witness statements and supporting materials.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date safety records in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Track incident trends and assist in preparing routine safety reports and summaries.
• Support preparation of materials for Monthly Safety Meetings and Safety Committee Meetings.

Training & Compliance Support

• Support the coordination and delivery of safety orientations and training sessions.
• Assist in scheduling and tracking third-party training and certifications.
• Maintain training records and ensure documentation is complete and current.
• Support compliance efforts with OSHA, FDNY, and other applicable regulations.

Technical & Administrative Support

• Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical inventory records.
• Assist with permit tracking and coordination for special effects and high-risk activities.
• Support Fire and Life Safety efforts, including emergency preparedness drills and exercises.
• Maintain safety equipment inventories and inspection logs (e.g., fire extinguishers, harnesses, fall protection equipment).
• Assist in updating safety manuals, procedures, and safety plans.

Employee Safety Concerns

• Assist in documenting and following up on safety concerns raised by employees and employee committees; elevate findings to the Director of Safety and support the development and tracking of appropriate remediation actions.

Skills and Qualifications

Required

• 2–4 years of experience in Occupational Health & Safety, operations, or a related support role.
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and general workplace safety practices.
• Experience with documentation, reporting, and administrative tracking.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and performance schedules as needed.
• Ability to work in physically active environments, including at heights when required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Preferred

• Exposure to technical theater, stage operations, live events, or similar environments.
• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety, Technical Theater, Engineering, or related field.
• OSHA 30 certification (General Industry or Construction).
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification.
• Experience in large-scale performing arts or live entertainment venues.

Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow established processes and elevate issues appropriately.
• Calm and professional demeanor in fast-paced environments.
• Collaborative mindset with strong interpersonal skills.
• Sound judgment and reliability.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Physical Demands

This position may require occasional evening and weekend work to support operational needs, events, or time-sensitive initiatives.

$70,000 - $85,000 a year

The Metropolitan Opera is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and existing employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship status, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.