Director of Safety

Follow your passion

Are you looking to make a BIG impact? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

Currently, we operate multiple elementary, middle, and high schools in the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens for the 2026-27 school year . We plan to grow and open the equivalent of 1-2 schools each year because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. Join our growing team today, and be a change agent for children.

Our Network office is located at 401 W. 218th St., New York, NY 10034. Currently, we work out of this office on Tuesdays and Thursdays and can use the other days of the week to work directly at our other locations, as needed. While you will be employed on our Network team (Central Office), much of your work will be on the ground within our schools. Your flexibility will be crucial as you learn about our people and facilities. While school is in session, you can expect to be in-person everyday with some flexibility for remote work after you have adjusted to the role. When school is not in session, you can work mostly remotely and come in person as required.

Deliver powerful results

To achieve our vision, we are searching for a stellar Director of Safety with a Bachelor's Degree and 4-6+ years of experience with strong preference for deep experience in NYPD and/or school safety/crisis management. The position title will be commensurate with candidate experience. Our ideal candidate will have experience as a Chief of Police for the NYPD.

Safety is Zeta's top priority. We invest deeply in our safety processes, technology, and partnerships with external agencies such as the NYPD. As we continue to grow, our safety procedures, practices, and culture must strengthen alongside our expansion. The Director of Safety's primary objective is to lead this effort and ensure that our systems and culture of safety evolve to meet the needs of a scaling organization.

The responsibilities of this role will include but not be limited to the following:

• Coordinate with NYPD, EMS, and FDNY to ensure swift, effective responses in any emergency situation. As you grow in your understanding of Zeta's culture and systems, you will take full ownership of managing emergency responses across our schools.
• Lead and hire our team of security agents to uphold Zeta's high standards for safety, professionalism, and care. Deliver engaging safety trainings for security agents and Zeta team members.
• Build and maintain strong, proactive relationships with NYPD and local precincts.
• Strengthen Zeta's emergency preparedness systems, including protocols for active shooters, bomb threats, and other critical incidents.
• Conduct ongoing building security assessments and contribute to Zeta's safety systems scoring and improvement efforts.
• Monitor and review safety events captured by security cameras and door sensors to identify trends and opportunities for prevention.
• Participate in and provide insight during post-incident safety debriefs to continuously strengthen our safety culture.

Join our purpose-driven community

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child-like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child. Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private sector experience. At Zeta:

• We are passionate about our mission of providing world-class education to all students
• We bring a mindset of growth, flexibility, and openness to feedback
• We are hungry and determined to not only meet our goals, but surpass them
• We are humble, willing to put the team's needs ahead of our own, and committed to contributing to a collaborative work environment
• We have a high bar for excellence and sweat over the details
• We are caring and put team over individual at all times

We are hiring for an immediate opening. The salary range for this position is between $125,000 and $200,000. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary at or near the start of the range, depending on relevant experience and internal equity. Compensation is based on our salary scale. This position is eligible to receive an annual discretionary, merit-based performance bonus.
How does Zeta invest in you?

We offer great benefits:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings
• Competitive compensation

We provide awesome perks:

• Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses (Gym memberships, salon appointments, concerts - it's up to you!)
• 4 live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace, and a free Headspace subscription
• MacBook Air, and specified monthly reimbursement for use of mobile phone
• Fully stocked teacher workrooms with favorite snacks and Nespresso machine
• Zeta swag, team outings, and NYC's finest sweet treats
• Books for professional development

We care deeply about your personal and professional growth:

• Clear pathway to professional growth
• Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates
• Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
• Interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming

Apply Now!

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).