State Safety Oversight Program Manager

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

1d•$29 - $42

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Transportation’s (NDOT) Local Assistance Division is seeking a State Safety Oversight Program Manager to help launch and lead safety oversight for Nebraska’s first streetcar system—the Omaha Streetcar. This is a newly created position and a unique opportunity to build and manage the State’s Safety Oversight Agency (SSOA) office from the ground up as Nebraska enters a new era of rail transit. The State Safety Oversight Program Manager will work closely with the Omaha Streetcar team, internal NDOT staff, consultants, and federal partners to establish safety programs, oversee audits and investigations, track corrective actions, and ensure safe practices are embedded from construction through daily operations. Ideal for a collaborative, forward-thinking leader, this role offers the chance to shape a new program, influence safety culture, and play a critical role in the successful launch and long-term operation of Nebraska’s first modern streetcar system. We reward our employees' hard work with a friendly and supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package that includes: State-matched retirement contribution of 156% 13 paid holidays Generous leave accruals that begin immediately Military leave Tuition reimbursement program Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government 79% employer-paid health insurance plans Dental and vision insurance plans Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service Training and Development based on your career aspirations Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship Employee Assistance Program Fun, inviting teammates Free parking Pay range is $28.768 - $42.408 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved.

Requirements

Two year post high school degree or equivalent coursework/training in public administration, business administration, communications, regional or community planning, social sciences, education, or human rights, and one year of experience in project management, public policy, marketing and/or planning.
Additional years of experience in comparable fields of work listed may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
Must have a valid driver’s license or ability to provide independent authorized transportation.
Knowledge of transportation systems, public-sector program management, and safety oversight, along with an understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements and government processes.
Demonstrated skills in coordinating and collaborating with multiple stakeholders, including agencies, service providers, consultants, and contractors, as well as planning, managing, and monitoring programs or projects with attention to deadlines, deliverables, and outcomes.
Ability to interpret policies, guidance, and technical information and apply them effectively in practical situations, develop and maintain processes and reporting systems for program oversight, and identify risks to support improvements.
Ability to manage or oversee staff, consultants, or cross-functional teams, communicate clearly and effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences, and contribute to building or improving programs in a growing or evolving environment.

Nice To Haves

This role is well-suited for individuals motivated by the opportunity to build or improve programs and processes in a growing or evolving environment.
Experience in: Transportation, infrastructure, public works, engineering, planning, safety, or a related public-sector field, with a demonstrated ability to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies or operate in a regulated environment.
Managing complex programs or projects involving multiple stakeholders and supporting compliance, oversight, or quality assurance activities, ideally in a rail or transit safety context.
Safety oversight programs, or a strong interest in building and implementing SSOA processes, is highly desirable.
Interpreting policies, guidance, and technical information and apply them effectively in practical settings.
Managing consultants, contractors, or cross-functional teams, strong organizational skills for tracking requirements and deliverables, and effective written and verbal communication for both technical and non-technical audiences are also preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the State Safety Oversight (SSO) Program, including development, implementation, and enforcement of the Program Standard and related safety requirements.
Ensure ongoing certification, compliance, and effective administration of the SSO Program and associated rail transit safety activities.
Monitor and oversee the Rail Transit Agency’s system to ensure safety compliance, including review of documentation, investigations, and safety performance.
Track and manage corrective action plans, safety findings, hazards, and required deliverables from issuance through closeout.
Plan, conduct, and support audits, reviews, and investigations, including triennial audits and coordination with internal and external stakeholders.
Oversee safety activities during the planning, engineering, construction, and operational phases of rail transit projects.
Develop and implement risk-based inspections and oversight activities based on safety and performance data.
Manage consultant support and coordinate with NDOT staff, transit agencies, and local, state, and federal partners.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
13 paid holidays
Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
Military leave
Tuition reimbursement program
Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
79% employer-paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
Employee Assistance Program
Fun, inviting teammates
Free parking