Assistant Director, Environmental Programs at Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Business Unit: Bridges and Tunnels

Location: New York, NY, United States

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Department: H&S/Health and Safety

Date Posted: Jul 29, 2026

Job Title: Assistant Director, Environmental Programs

Resume Date : August 11, 2026

Department: Environmental Health & Safety

Work Location: Randall’s Island

Job Family/ Grade: SAS007

Earnings Potential: $110,694 - $138,367

MTA Bridges and Tunnels reserves the right to remove this posting before the application deadline

MTA Bridges and Tunnels operates the largest bridge and tunnel network in New York City, managing nine crossings that include seven bridges and two tunnels. Serving more than 336 million vehicle crossings each year, this network connects communities across the five boroughs and supports regional mobility. In addition, MTA Bridges and Tunnels oversees the Congestion Relief Zone, working to ensure safe, efficient travel and a more sustainable urban environment. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities.

Telework

This position is eligible for telework which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Job Summary

The Assistant Director, Environmental Programs reporting to the Vice President of Environmental Compliance, is responsible for the coordination, implementation, and oversight of environmental compliance programs across assigned TBTA facilities. This role ensures consistent alignment with Authority policies, applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations, and established environmental performance objectives.

The role manages the implementation and coordination of environmental compliance programs across assigned TBTA facilities, ensuring adherence to applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as MTA and TBTA policies. The position supports environmental program execution, regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, contractor oversight, training, performance monitoring, and stakeholder engagement. Responsibilities include conducting site inspections, supporting audits and regulatory reporting, coordinating corrective actions, monitoring environmental performance metrics, and promoting environmental stewardship. The role serves as a key liaison with facility operations, contractors, and regulatory agencies, providing guidance and recommendations to mitigate environmental risks and enhance compliance across the organization.

Responsibilities

Environmental Compliance Oversight, Site Risk Management, and Regulatory Programs:

• Lead and coordinate site-specific environmental risk assessments to identify operational impacts and recommend mitigation and corrective actions.
• Ensure environmental compliance activities at assigned facilities are executed in accordance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements, as well as Authority policies and procedures.
• Coordinate, review, and support the timely submission of State Agency Environmental Audit (SAEA) reports in collaboration with internal stakeholders under Vice President oversight.
• Oversee petroleum bulk storage (PBS) compliance monitoring programs to ensure regulatory adherence and prevent environmental contamination risks.
• Provide functional oversight of hazardous materials handling, storage, and disposal practices to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and safe operating procedures.
• Monitor contractor and vendor compliance with environmental standards, contractual obligations, and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as a functional lead and technical resource providing guidance to site personnel, contractors, and vendors on environmental compliance requirements.
• Support the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of site-level environmental procedures and controls.
• Support environmental training and awareness initiatives to promote a culture of compliance and environmental responsibility across operations.

Capital Program Integration and Cross-Functional Coordination

• Coordinate environmental compliance activities related to capital projects to ensure environmental impacts are identified, assessed, and mitigated throughout planning and execution.
• Serve as the environmental liaison between site operations and Construction & Development (C&D) to ensure environmental requirements are integrated into project scope, design, and execution.
• Participate in project planning and design discussions to provide environmental expertise and ensure regulatory compliance considerations are embedded from project inception.
• Monitor implementation of environmental controls during construction activities to ensure compliance and minimize operational disruption.
• Support strategies to maintain operational continuity and customer experience during capital project execution.
• Assist in post-project reviews, reporting, and documentation of environmental outcomes, compliance status, and lessons learned.

Program Development, Continuous Improvement, and Strategic Analysis

• Research and analyze regulatory developments, industry standards, and environmental best practices to inform continuous improvement of environmental programs.
• Collaborate with internal TBTA departments to identify, assess, and mitigate environmental risks across assigned sites.
• Provide site-level input into program enhancements and operational improvements to strengthen environmental performance and compliance.
• Contribute to a collaborative and accountable work environment by supporting cross-functional initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
• Monitor environmental performance trends and provide recommendations to site and senior leadership on risk reduction and operational improvements.

T raining, Workforce Support, and Resource Coordination:

• Lead and coordinate delivery of mandatory environmental training and awareness programs for operational, maintenance, safety, and contractor personnel.
• Evaluate training effectiveness through feedback, compliance indicators, and operational performance metrics, and recommend improvements as needed.
• Manage relationships with training vendors, consultants, and instructors to ensure high-quality delivery of environmental training programs.
• Contribute to site-level workforce planning by providing input on environmental staffing needs, scheduling considerations, and resource allocation to support compliance obligations.
• Support coordination of environmental personnel and resources across capital and operational programs to improve efficiency and compliance outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting: Represent the Environmental Compliance function in meetings with site leadership, contractors, and internal stakeholders as appropriate.
• Support coordination and communication with regulatory agencies under the direction of the Vice President of Environmental Compliance.
• Provide input into internal reporting, dashboards, and compliance updates to support executive awareness of environmental performance and risk areas.

• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
• May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
• Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
• Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable.
• Addresses performance issues with the contractor, when possible, as applicable
• Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in arts/sciences (BA/BS) in Environmental Law, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Management, or Occupational Health & Safety Management or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible experience in environmental compliance, environmental management systems, or regulatory programs within a complex operational or infrastructure environment.
• Minimum 4 years of experience with oversight of multi-site environmental programs, regulatory reporting, and coordination with capital or construction projects.
• Experience in environmental program administration or closely related environmental compliance work.
• Experience with environmental audits, regulatory reporting, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Experience conducting or supporting incident investigations, including root cause analysis and corrective action development.
• Experience coordinating environmental compliance activities within large, complex facilities, infrastructure systems, or multi-site operational environments.
• Experience with environmental compliance management systems (EMS), incident reporting systems, and compliance tracking tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and document management software.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations (e.g., EPA, NYSDEC).
• Knowledge of environmental regulatory frameworks and standards, including RCRA, TSCA, and applicable water and air quality regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop regulatory reports, documentation, and audit materials.
• Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a high-profile, high-pressure operational environment.
• Strong focus on results delivery, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement
• Demonstrated ability to act as a change agent, with creative and innovative thinking to support process improvement and alignment of business objectives with operational solutions.
• Strong team building, listening, problem-solving, and prioritization skills.
• Ability to be on call 24/7 and respond to any MTA Bridges and Tunnels facility as operational needs require.
• Unrestricted driver's license in New York State.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in arts/sciences (MA/MS) or advanced degree in environmental engineering or a related field.
• Significant experience in program management within large government agencies or highly complex organizational environments.
• Familiarity with MTA policies and procedures and/or New York State environmental regulatory frameworks.
• Experience supporting or coordinating environmental compliance activities within capital construction or infrastructure project environments.
• Certifications such as Certified Environmental Professional (CEP), OSHA, or equivalent.
• Certifications such as Certified Environmental Professional (CEP), OSHA, or equivalent.

Additional Information

This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.

Other Information

Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.

To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

MTA Bridges and Tunnels is governed by the Civil Service Rules and Regulations administered by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS).

How to Apply

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.

Comprehensive Benefits & Total Rewards Package

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.
• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high-quality individual, family and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision and life insurance plans.
• Secure Your Future – Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.
• Holistic Support Services – Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.
• Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.
• Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.
• Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities. The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.