Safety and Security Officer

Summary of Responsibilities

The Gateway Development Commission (GDC)is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Safety/Security Officer to direct and manage the safety/security program during design, construction, commissioning, and safety certification of the Gateway Program’s Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP). Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, they will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of all operations within the project. You will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of safety and security protocols, conducting regular audits, and collaborating with various stakeholders to promote a safe and secure work environment. Your expertise will be instrumental in identifying and mitigating risks and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and industry standards.

Essential Functions

Oversee the overall operations of the programs reporting to this position.

Direct and manage the HTP’s safety program during design, construction, commissioning, and safety certification, and develop and implement safety policies, procedures, and protocols for the HTP in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.

Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to identify potential hazards and risks and develop corrective action plans to address any issues that are identified.

Provide safety training and education to all HTP personnel, including contractors, vendors, and other stakeholders, to ensure that everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities in maintaining a safe work environment.

Work closely with the HTP project management team to identify and mitigate safety risks throughout the project lifecycle, from design through construction, commissioning, and operation.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the HTP's safety program and make recommendations for improvements as necessary.

Coordinate with external safety agencies and organizations, such as OSHA, FRA, and DOT, to ensure that the HTP project team follows all applicable regulations and guidelines.

Manage the HTP's emergency response plan, including developing and conducting regular drills and exercises to ensure that all personnel are prepared to respond in the event of an emergency.

Collaborate with other departments within the Gateway Program, as well as with external stakeholders such as Amtrak, NJ TRANSIT, and PANYNJ, to ensure that safety considerations are integrated into all aspects of HTP’s operations.

Serve as a liaison between the HTP and external safety organizations, communicating regularly with regulators, auditors, and other stakeholders to ensure that the HTP's safety program is meeting all requirements.

Prepare and present regular reports to the Chief Executive Officer and other senior executives, summarizing HTP’s safety performance and outlining any areas of concern or recommended improvements.

Conduct regular security assessments and risk evaluations to identify vulnerabilities and propose appropriate solutions.

Monitor and oversee the operation of security systems, including surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarm systems.

Develop and implement security protocols and emergency response procedures to handle critical situations effectively.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with security policies and standards.

Conduct security training sessions for employees to raise awareness and promote a culture of security vigilance.

Investigate and report incidents, accidents, or suspicious activities promptly to the appropriate authorities.

Coordinate with external law enforcement agencies and security providers when necessary.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of security-related incidents and actions taken.

Stay informed about current security trends, threats, and best practices to continually improve security measures.

Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as Safety Management, Security Management, Criminal Justice, or a related field.

Minimum of 10 years of experience in a safety and security leadership role, preferably in a construction or transportation-related industry.

Knowledge of OSHA, FRA, and DOT regulations and guidelines.

Proven track record of successfully managing safety and security programs, including developing and implementing policies and protocols.

Strong leadership and communication skills.

Familiarity with relevant safety and security regulations, industry standards, and best practices.

Ability to coordinate with internal and external stakeholders.

Education can be used in lieu of experience and experience can be used in lieu of education if the candidate's overall qualifications meet the requirements for the position.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive Salary

Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision Benefits subject to employee contributions

Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts

Life Insurance

Commuter Benefits

401(a) Retirement Plan (6% of employee’s salary funded by GDC)

457(b) Retirement Plan – (Pre-Tax Salary Contributions Elected by Employees)

Earned Vacation (20 days per year) and Sick Time (12 days per year)

Paid holidays

Project Background

The Gateway Development Commission (GDC) is a bi-state public authority charged with delivering the Hudson Tunnel Project: the cornerstone of the Gateway Program, a comprehensive set of rail investments that will improve transportation along the busiest section of the Northeast Corridor. GDC is governed by a seven-member Board appointed by Amtrak, New Jersey, and the New York State Department of Transportation. GDC works in partnership with Amtrak, NJ TRANSIT, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

The Hudson Tunnel Project (HTP) is the most urgent infrastructure project in America. It involves constructing a new two-track tunnel under the Hudson River connecting to New York Penn Station as well as the full rehabilitation of the existing 115-year-old North River Tunnel. The project will create operational flexibility, rail network redundancy, and resiliency against future impacts to the Hudson River rail crossing.

The Gateway Development Commission is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and administers all personnel practices without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status or military status, or any other category protected under applicable law. We encourage qualified people from all backgrounds to apply.

To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to with the job title “Safety/Security Officer” in the subject line.