Transit Safety Leader — Regional Strategy & Experience

COMTO; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 141,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension plan or 401(k)

Hybrid work environment

Transit benefits

Paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) seeks a Chief or Director of Transit Safety Officer to lead regional safety initiatives across CTA/Pace/Metra and partners. This senior role oversees safety programs, data analytics, and interagency coordination to protect riders and workers.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s degree in a relevant field, 10+ years in public safety (Chief) or 7–10 years (Director), and a proven track record in managing large teams, emergency preparedness, and safety

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Sociology, Psychology, Forensic Science, or a related field.
• Ten+ years in public safety and law enforcement for Chief; seven–ten years for Director, with supervisory experience.
• Experience leading large cross‑functional teams and emergency preparedness systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of a regional transit safety strategy with partner boards.
• Manage data collection and analysis to monitor safety performance and guide decisions.
• Oversee interagency coordination with law enforcement, social services and transit partners.
• Develop protocols for large events, emergencies, and safety reporting channels.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Policy development

Equity-centered service

Change management

Interpersonal

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Sociology, Psychology, Forensic Science, or related field

Tools

Data driven safety frameworks

Performance management systems

Job description

Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) seeks a Chief or Director of Transit Safety Officer to lead regional safety initiatives across CTA/Pace/Metra and partners. This senior role oversees safety programs, data analytics, and interagency coordination to protect riders and workers.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s degree in a relevant field, 10+ years in public safety (Chief) or 7–10 years (Director), and a proven track record in managing large teams, emergency preparedness, and safety