Safety Lead - CR Mechanical

MBTA; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Safety Lead for Commuter Rail Mechanical to enhance safety protocols and oversee incident investigations. This role requires a proactive leader to collaborate with various departments, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and implementing improvements. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechanical engineering and railroad operations, along with exceptional analytical and leadership skills. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards in the transportation sector, where your expertise will directly impact employee safety and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 6+ years experience in railroad operations or mechanical maintenance.
• Knowledge of OSHA standards and railroad operating rules.

Responsibilities

• Investigate incidents and develop safety improvements.
• Conduct inspections and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Manage safety specialists and develop safety policies.

Skills

Safety Hazard Assessment

Incident Response

Analytical Skills

Conflict Resolution

Customer Service

Organizational Skills

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

High School Diploma or GED with related experience

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

CAD Applications

Job description

The Safety Lead - Commuter Rail Mechanical is responsible for investigating incidents involving railroad mechanical components, such as major events and near misses affecting employee safety, infrastructure, derailments, and service interruptions. The role involves responding to incidents, gathering documentation, reporting, root cause analysis, and collaborating with Railroad Operations (RRO) and Keolis to develop and implement safety improvements. The Safety Lead will also support safety assurance activities, including audits, and stay updated on relevant laws and regulations, recommending necessary updates to MBTA Safety management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Act as a Subject Matter Expert for all Railroad safety matters, advising senior management and working with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
2. Oversee Keolis mechanical operations during night and weekend shifts as required.
3. Respond to incidents, gather evidence, notify appropriate parties, and coordinate with departments for comprehensive investigations.
4. Manage Safety Specialists, Analysts, and Audit Coordinators, contributing to the development of safety policies, goals, and performance metrics.
5. Assess safety programs through inspections and reviews, identifying improvements and partnering with Keolis Mechanical Leadership and RRO.
6. Develop and oversee root cause analyses and recommend corrective actions for mechanical activities.
7. Provide technical direction to support staff to ensure safe work practices and hazard mitigation.
8. Conduct scheduled and unscheduled inspections of facilities, work sites, and equipment to ensure compliance with regulations.
9. Develop, review, and deliver safety training programs in line with regulatory and company standards.
10. Drive company or personal vehicle to inspect sites and assist during emergencies or events.
11. Perform additional duties and projects as assigned.

Supervision:

• No direct reports.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• Six years of experience in railroad operations, mechanical, or train maintenance.
• One year of supervisory or leadership experience.
• Valid Class D driver's license.
• Ability to respond to incidents in various weather conditions, including extreme weather, any time of day or night.
• Experience in safety hazard assessment and mitigation.
• Knowledge of 49 CFR Parts 200-299 and OSHA standards; certification in general industry or construction safety.
• Understanding of railroad operating rules and specific CFR standards (229 and 238).
• Experience in safety programs, incident response, and investigations.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and multitasking skills.
• Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Flexibility to work any shift or location, 24/7 availability.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to complete safety training courses within the first month, including SMS Fundamentals, ICS courses, and others.
• Ability to complete a Public Transportation Safety Certification Training Program within three years.

Substitution Options:

• High School Diploma or GED with 7 years related experience.
• Associate degree with 3 years related experience.
• Master’s degree in a related field substitutes for 2 years of experience.
• Relevant certification can substitute for one year of experience.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Knowledge of CAD, mainframe, or database applications.
• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field.
• Experience in transportation safety.
• Knowledge of APTA standards.
• NORAC operating rules qualification.
• Understanding of Safety Management Systems, hazard analysis, and safety performance monitoring.
• Transit Safety and Security Program (TSSP) Certification.