Fleet Vehicle Safety Manager

RISE is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1980 as Aid To The Developmentally Disabled (ADD) by family members who were concerned about the physical and emotional decline of patients compelled to live in crowded institutions.

These family members believed that appropriate treatment and training in a warm, sheltered, homelike environment would enhance their physical and emotional growth. With the support, funding and licensing of New York State’s Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and the Office of Mental Health (OMH), ADD came to life.

We are currently seeking a Fleet Safety Manager.

The Fleet Vehicle Safety Manager is an exempt level position responsible for ensuring the safety, compliance, and efficient operation of the organization’s vehicle fleet. This role develops and enforces safety policies, oversees driver training, conducts hands-on vehicle maintenance, monitors fleet performance, and ensures adherence to DOT, OSHA, and state regulations. The manager also leads safety investigations, tracks performance metrics, and collaborates across departments to promote a culture of safety.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct driver safety instruction and road tests for all new hires responsible for the transportation of vulnerable individuals. Provide ongoing annual refresher training for existing drivers.
• Develop, implement, and maintain fleet safety policies compliant with DOT and organizational requirements.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance on vehicles, including oil changes, windshield wiper replacement, tire rotations, fluid checks, and other basic safety-related repairs.
• Perform routine inspections and maintenance on wheelchair vans, including lift systems, ramps, safety belts, straps, and tie-downs, ensuring secure and compliant transportation for individuals with mobility needs.
• Manage preventive maintenance schedules and ensure all vehicles meet safety and performance standards.
• Perform safety audits, conduct risk assessments, inspect vehicles, and review incident reports to identify hazards and ensure compliance.
• Lead post-accident and post-incident investigations, including root cause analysis, and implement corrective action plans.
• Track, analyze, and present key performance indicators (e.g., incident rates, compliance audits) to management.
• Manage the fleet safety budget, including training, compliance, and maintenance costs.
• Collaborate with HR on driver hiring standards, including MVR checks, license verification, and onboarding.
• Facilitate safety committee meetings and promote a culture of safety across the organization.
• On call availability for immediate triage. You are expected to be available to respond to calls within a reasonable short timeframe (no more than 20 minutes) and be ready to report to location if deployment is required.
• Complete additional projects and assignments as needed.

Qualifications & Skills

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in transportation safety, fleet management, or a related field.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in safety management, logistics, or a related field preferred.
• Valid New York State driver’s license with a clean driving record (CDL preferred if required by fleet size/vehicle type).
• In-depth knowledge of DOT and OSHA regulations.
• Must successfully complete agency-provided training in OPWDD transportation safety standards within the first 90 days of employment.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience performing routine vehicle maintenance and basic repairs.
• Proficiency in fleet management software, data analysis, and Microsoft applications.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to train and motivate drivers, work collaboratively across departments, and resolve safety concerns quickly.

Certifications

Required at Hire:

• OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Training (or equivalent safety training).
• First Aid/CPR Certification.

Must Obtain Within 12 Months (Agency-Sponsored):

• Certified Director of Safety (CDS) or Certified Transportation Safety Manager (CTSM) – NATMI.
• Defensive Driving Instructor certification (preferred but may be obtained post-hire).

Salary Range

$65,000 – $75,000 annually (commensurate with experience and qualifications).

For more on Rise Life Services please visit our website at riselifeservices. org EOE

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Fleet management: 3 years (Required)
• Microsoft: 1 year (Required)
• leadership : 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• NYS Drivers License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $65,000 - $75,000