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Role Description

The Maryland Department of Transportation, The Secretary’s Office (MDOT TSO), is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Director of Rail Safety and Audits (DOT Executive VI). This executive-level position will provide leadership and oversight of rail transit safety programs, audits, and enterprise risk management functions across MDOT modal administrations to ensure compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements and alignment with departmental safety and operational goals.

The Director of Rail Safety and Audits is responsible for overseeing the audit function at the Secretary’s Office (TSO) and providing strategic guidance and oversight to audit offices across MDOT modes, including:

• Maryland Aviation Administration
• Maryland Port Administration
• Maryland Transit Administration
• Maryland Transportation Authority
• Motor Vehicle Administration
• State Highway Administration

Key responsibilities include:

• Directing the implementation of risk-based inspections and safety assurance activities required by the Federal Transit Administration.
• Developing and maintaining a comprehensive risk-based audit plan and rail safety oversight strategy.
• Managing professional staff and consultants supporting the Office of Audits and Rail Safety.
• Establishing and maintaining standardized audit methodologies aligned with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) International Professional Practices Framework.
• Overseeing investigations of fraud, waste, and abuse, including those received via hotlines or anonymous sources.
• Coordinating with federal, state, and local stakeholders regarding audit, compliance and oversight activities.

This position is designated as Emergency Essential and may require availability for duty outside normal work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays in support of MDOT's emergency response or operational needs. The selected candidate may be required to participate in an on-call rotation to receive and document transit agency reports of safety or security incidents.

The current vacancy exists at MDOT TSO in the Office of Audits and Rail Safety, which is located in Hanover, MD. (Anne Arundel County). This position may allow a hybrid work schedule, including telework and on-site work hours.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in transportation management, engineering, public administration, safety management, business administration, or a related field.
• Seven (7) years of professional transportation experience in rail transit operations, auditing, compliance, quality management, or transportation safety/security oversight.
• Four (4) of the required years must have involved supervising other employees or exercising responsibility for program development.
• Knowledge of federal and state rail safety regulations and oversight requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate risk and implement corrective actions.
• Public Transportation Safety Certification (PTSCP).
• Experience developing policies, procedures, or safety improvement initiatives.
• Experience conducting/overseeing audits, inspections, risk management or related activities.
• Current or past audit and/or safety oversight training or certifications.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including preparing reports and presenting findings to executive leadership and external stakeholders.
• The ability to collaborate with federal, state, local, and industry partners to support safe and reliable transportation operations.

Requirements

• Employees in this position may be assigned duties that require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland.
• Employees may be required to travel statewide.

Benefits

MDOT offers a generous and competitive benefits package. You can learn about our amazing benefits here: MDOT Benefits

Company Description

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) provides superb services that connect customers to life’s opportunities, serving Maryland residents, visitors, and businesses.