Area Safety Manager

First Student

3d • $95,000 - $110,000

About The Position

First Student is now hiring an Area Safety Manager! Join a team that puts safety first! We’re looking for an experienced and proactive Area Safety Manager. This high-impact role is ideal for a safety professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, can lead with influence, and has a passion for operational excellence. Coverage Area: Northern California and Inland Empire Full-Time | Up to 80% Travel Required Annual Salary Range: $95,000 – $110,000 + Bonus

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in safety or transportation (or relevant education)
• 5+ years in fleet or transportation management
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Tech-savvy with Microsoft Office and safety/operations software
• Experience in collision investigation and root cause analysis
• Ability to train, coach, and build team engagement
• Flexible, with availability to travel frequently (80%) and respond to urgent needs

Nice To Haves

• Smith System Instructor Certification
• State Instructor Certification

Responsibilities

• Serve as a key safety and compliance partner across multiple sites
• Conduct annual (or more frequent) site safety reviews and wellness checks
• Lead investigations for serious incidents and support root cause analysis and corrective action plans
• Monitor safety trends, deliver monthly safety performance reports, and drive continuous improvement
• Guide and support Location Safety Managers (LSMs) with ongoing development
• Partner with HR and Operations to ensure proper staffing of driver trainers
• Support compliance with company policies, training standards, and state/federal regulations
• Assist with safety training programs, claims management, and coordination of regional safety initiatives
• Travel up to 80%, primarily overnight, to provide on-site coaching, audits, and emergency response

Benefits

• We offer competitive compensation and benefits (which vary based on role, location, and business), including physical and mental health initiatives, medical/dental/vision, 401(k), and paid holiday/vacation.
• Professional Advancement Start here. Go far. We believe in promoting from within which means tremendous opportunities for you, thanks to our strong presence across North America. In addition, our 3 to 5 month Manager-In-Development program prepares future leaders at First Student.
• Extensive Training Build skills and knowledge in such areas as safety and security, injury prevention, technology and equipment, and job efficiency.
• Diversity & Inclusion Because we’re stronger together, we aspire to have a culture where all people are First. We’re committed to providing an inclusive and diverse working environment for everyone every day.
• Community Service & Impact Go where opportunity meets community. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. As the face of First in your community, you’ll have a positive impact on others.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees