JOB SUMMARY

The Office of the President is seeking a Chief Safety Officer (CSO) and Associate Vice President in the Division of University Safety. The CSO provides executive level leadership for the division that is accountable for a comprehensive portfolio of safety and environmental health support services for the University of Connecticut, its regional campuses, and UConn Health. The CSO shall foster a proactive and service-oriented culture through actively engaging with the entire university community, while working collaboratively with University leadership to determine, provide, and refine services delivered by the various offices and departments of the Division. Please visit the Executive Openings for a comprehensive position description.

The Division of University Safety consists of eight distinct departments, specifically the Police Department, Security Services department, the Fire Department, the Office of Emergency Management, the Fire Marshal and Building Inspector’s Office, the Environmental Health and Safety Department, Business Services Office and the Emergency Communications Center. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, criminal justice, public administration or management, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 10 years of public safety management experience, 2 years of which must be in a senior level command position or equivalent, including diverse assignments and/or experience in a safety related organization. Examples include, but are not limited to law enforcement, environmental health and safety, building and fire code compliance, fire or emergency management organization, preferably at an institution of higher education of similar size and complexity as the University of Connecticut.
• The ability to lead, engage in, and develop policies pertaining to the health and safety of the University. 
• Excellent interpersonal skills; as well as strong verbal, written and technology skills.  
• Extensive experience responding with diplomacy and tact during volatile situations. 
• Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with senior administration, academic leaders, students, faculty, staff, parents, governmental authorities, community and municipality groups and the general public. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of health and safety issues and best practices in a higher education residential environment. 
• Understanding of, and experience in emergency management, emergency communication systems, and special event management.  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced degree in a relevant field.
• Participation and completion of an executive-level public service training course, such as Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government Executive Education Programs, the FBI National Academy, Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy, or similar type programs. 
• Capability to adapt to unexpected changes in the University environment while maintaining continuous health and safety at the University.  
• A general understanding of first responder services, including fire suppression, emergency medical response, E-911 dispatching and law enforcement services. 
• A general understanding of fire, building, and ADA compliance. 
• A general understanding of environmental, OSHA, or other universities' health and safety regulations. 
• A general understanding of security technology and emergency communication equipment, hardware, and software.  
• Experience in planning and leading health and safety measures for high-profile events, such as for collegiate Division 1 athletic programs including football and basketball games or other events. 

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, permanent position and requires the incumbent’s willingness and ability to be available and respond to any of UConn’s statewide campuses 24/7 during a critical incident. This position also requires traveling within and to any of UConn’s statewide campuses or other meeting locations. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/.  Please visit the Executive Openings for a comprehensive position description.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498657 to upload a resume, cover letter detailing qualifications and experience, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Review of applications will begin October 23, 2024. This job posting is open until filled. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.