Deputy Director of Safety and Security Operations

Job Description and Duties

Under the general direction of the Chief of Safety and Security, The Deputy Director of Safety and Security Operations is responsible for the day-to-day leadership, execution, and operational performance of the California High-Speed Rail Authority’s (Authority) safety and security programs across all phases of project delivery. The incumbent ensures that  safety and security policies, procedures, and requirements are effectively developed, managed,and implemented across the program, with a strong focus on field execution, contractor oversight, risk reduction, and incident management. This position serves as the Authority’s primary operational leader responsible for driving safety performance and ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and Authority objectives.

Please note, this position is pending Department of Finance approval. 

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Working Conditions

Part-time telework is available for this position for California residents based on the requirements of the position and may be discussed during the interview process. Hiring interviews may be available virtually, using teleconferencing or video conferencing options.

While working on-site, the incumbent works in a professional office environment, in a climate-controlled area which may fluctuate in temperature and is under artificial light. The incumbent will be required to use a computer, mouse, and keyboard, and will be required to sit for long periods of time at a computer screen. Employee must be able to focus for long periods of time, multi-task, adapt to changes in priorities, and complete tasks or projects with short notice. Employee must develop and maintain cooperative working relationships and display professionalism and respect for others in all contact opportunities. The incumbent may occasionally work outdoors at construction sites and may be exposed to dirt, noise, uneven surfaces, inclement weather, and extreme heat or cold. 

Special Requirements

A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required to apply for this position. You must provide narrative responses and specific examples for each item listed below in your SOQ to be considered for this position. Your SOQ must be typed in 12-point font, no longer than 3 pages, organized and numbered as reflected below, and you must respond to all the following items. Resumes, letters, and other materials will not be considered in the place of the SOQ.

1. The High-Speed Rail Authority’s project is the largest rail development project in the nation. What has prepared you to play a leading role in the successful management of a safety and security program that impacts all phases of a project this size? In your response, please include any relevant experience, education, and/or training that qualifies you for this position.
2. As the Deputy Director of Safety and Security Operations, you will be responsible for creating and maintaining policies, procedures, and standards for the Safety and Security Office to ensure alignment with state, federal, and organizational requirements. What experience do you have performing similar tasks for a department or organization?
3. Describe your leadership experience which demonstrates your ability to plan, organize, and direct multiple levels of staff and consultants.
4. Describe your professional work experience conducting field safety inspections, audits, and observations to verify safe work practices and conditions.
5. Crisis management is a critical aspect of construction safety and security. Please provide an example of a crisis situation you have managed in the past and how you effectively handled it.
6. Provide an example of a time in your career where you aligned organizational business plans and resources to achieve the strategic goals and objectives of the organization.

Applications received without the SOQ will not be considered. Resumes, letters, and other materials will not be considered in the place of the SOQ.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, website searches, and third-party reviewers can be helpful in researching responses to the SOQ; however, by submitting your application for this position, you understand and acknowledge the SOQ you submit is your own work, in your own words, and accurately reflects your knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences. Submitting an SOQ that is not your own may be cause for disqualification from the hiring process.

For assistance in completing the SOQ, please reach out to the Human Resources contact below.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

• Thorough knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and policies of federal, state, and local agencies, as well as federal and state legislation pertaining to the above duties.
• Working knowledge of contract provisions for capital contracts, DIR standards and procedures, Cal/OSHA standard and procedures, and CCR Title 8.   
• Effective and persuasive communicator, both orally and in writing, to all levels of officials and the public.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills along with the demonstrated ability to achieve positive results.  
• Personal characteristics that include a commitment to teamwork and a collaborative attitude.
• Knowledge of the principles, procedures, and organization required in the management of a government entity involved in the infrastructure delivery for a transportation project.
• Excellent management skills to direct an experienced professional staff.  
• Ability to assimilate technical data, legal issues, risk parameters and human sensitivities, exercise sound judgment in evaluating alternative courses of action, and recommending the preferred direction in the best interests of the Authority.
• Significant experience in large complex capital programs and policy development.
• Ability to exercise a high degree of initiative, flexibility, judgment, and confidentiality.
• Ability to represent the Authority in dealings with other government agencies and private entities in a way that reflects well on the Authority.
• Dependable, punctual, excellent attendance.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and calm professionalism in all situations.
• Experience directing safety programs involving heavy civil construction under federal and state regulations, including workplace rules and regulations as they pertain to safe work practices.

Benefits

The State of California offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental, a retirement pension, a telework stipend if applicable, and an array of other options.

Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.

Application Information

The STD. 678 is required, and each section must be filled out completely and thoroughly. Please do not include your Social Security Number, date of birth, veteran status, personal photos, LEAP information, or any other personally identifying information on any documents in your application package.

Using the online application system as specified in the announcement is the preferred method of applying for civil service job opportunities; however, applicants may instead apply by way of U.S. mail, parcel delivery or courier service, or in person, as set forth in this announcement.

If applying via postal mail or by dropping off your application, applicants must include JC-525124 and Deputy Director of Safety and Security Operations, 311-608-7500-002 in the 'Job Title' section of the STD. 678 to be considered for this position.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
• Statement of Qualifications - A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required to apply. Please see above “Special Requirements” section for SOQ instructions.