Job Summary:

TopView Sightseeing is seeking a highly experienced and proactive Safety Manager to oversee and manage the safety protocols, compliance requirements, and risk mitigation strategies for our double-decker sightseeing bus operations. This role is critical to ensuring passenger safety, employee training, regulatory adherence, and incident response planning across our entire sightseeing fleet.

The ideal candidate will possess in-depth knowledge of transport safety standards, risk management, driver training programs, and the specific operational challenges of open-top or double-decker buses in urban environments.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Regulatory Compliance & Safety Audits

• Ensure full compliance with all local, state, and federal transportation regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and ADA requirements.

• Conduct routine and surprise safety audits of vehicles, drivers, and operational procedures.

• Liaise with regulatory bodies during inspections, audits, and investigations.

2. Policy & Procedure Development

• Develop, implement, and maintain a company-wide Safety Management System (SMS).

• Create and regularly update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specifically for double-decker bus operations, including safety during boarding/disembarkation and rooftop passenger behavior.

• Implement safety signage and passenger communication tools (e.g., pre-trip safety announcements).

3. Driver Safety & Training

• Develop and manage driver training programs focused on defensive driving, high-clearance route planning, and customer service on sightseeing routes.

• Oversee driver qualification files, including license verification, drug and alcohol testing compliance, and medical certifications.

• Conduct post-incident driver retraining or disciplinary actions as necessary.

4. Risk Assessment & Incident Management

• Perform regular risk assessments of all routes, including clearance issues, overhead obstructions, and pedestrian zones.

• Investigate all accidents and incidents involving sightseeing buses, produce detailed reports, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.

• Coordinate accident review board meetings following any accident. 

5. Fleet & Equipment Safety

• Collaborate with the Fleet Maintenance team to ensure all vehicles are roadworthy, equipped with proper safety devices (e.g., cameras, seats, fire extinguishers).

• Ensure roof decks have appropriate guardrails, height clearance signage, and secure seating.

6. Passenger Safety & Public Interaction

• Monitor onboard safety issues such as standing passengers, moving about while in motion, or unsafe behavior on the upper deck.

• Develop and implement passenger safety education, including visual and verbal safety briefings.

• Coordinate with tour guides and customer service teams to enforce safety policies respectfully and effectively.

7. Data & Reporting

• Maintain a safety database with reports on incidents, near misses, training, inspections, and corrective actions.

• Prepare and present monthly/quarterly safety performance reports to senior leadership.

• Analyze trends and make data-driven recommendations to improve safety performance.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Transportation Management, Risk Management, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in transportation safety management; experience with sightseeing or commercial bus operations is strongly preferred.

• Valid driver’s license (CDL with Passenger Endorsement a plus).

• Knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and OSHA regulations.

Key Competencies & Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.

• Excellent understanding of NYC route planning and driving challenges specific to large buses.

• Proficiency in incident investigation and root cause analysis methodologies.

• High attention to detail, especially regarding documentation and compliance.

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to train, coach, and lead others.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as needed.

• Experience with safety management software and GPS/fleet telematics tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a safety role within a tourism, sightseeing, or public transportation company.

• Prior experience working with double decker buses or coach buses.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily office-based with frequent fieldwork, including ride-alongs, bus yard inspections, and route evaluations. Expect at least 60/40 field/office split. 

• May involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions and urban traffic.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a growing company of brands that is redefining tourism and delivering unforgettable experiences.

• Lead the safety function for a dynamic, growing operation with a strong commitment to passenger and employee well-being.

• Work with a passionate and diverse team in one of the most exciting transportation sectors.

Compensation: 

• $27-$31/hr
• Health/Medical/Vision benefits 
• PTO