Job Description
The State of Hawai'i Department of Transportation (DOT) is hiring a Safety Management Specialist IV-V (Delegated) for the Island of Oahu. This position is based at 235 S. Beretania Street, 11th Floor, Honolulu, Hawaii.
The role focuses on planning, organizing, and executing safety and certification programs for airport operations, including aircraft rescue and firefighting. You will implement Safety Management Systems (SMS) to assess components such as safety policy, safety risk management, safety assurance, and safety promotion.
Data collection and analysis are key duties.
Qualification
To qualify for the Safety Management Specialist IV-V, applicants must meet education and experience requirements specific to the level. The State of Hawai'i uses a merit-based civil service system; eligibility is determined by your qualifications as submitted on the application.
- For Safety Management Specialist IV: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in safety management, industrial hygiene, engineering, or a related field, and two years of professional safety management experience.
- For Safety Management Specialist V: Same education requirement plus three years of professional safety management experience.
- Experience must include planning, organizing, and directing safety programs; conducting safety inspections and investigations; and developing safety training.
- Substitution of experience for education may be allowed on a year-for-year basis.
- Applicants must clearly demonstrate in their application how they meet the minimum qualification requirements.
- All applicants must be citizens, nationals, or have permanent resident status in the United States.
- A valid driver's license may be required for some positions.
Role Responsibilities
Plan, organize, and execute safety and certification programs for airport operations.
- Implement Safety Management Systems (SMS) to assess safety policy, risk management, assurance, and promotion.
- Collect and analyze safety data to identify trends and recommend corrective actions.
- Conduct safety inspections and audits of airport facilities and equipment.
- Coordinate aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) training and certification.
- Develop and deliver safety training programs for airport personnel.
- Prepare reports and documentation for regulatory compliance.
- Serve as a liaison with federal, state, and local safety agencies.
Conditions & Requirements
Must be able to work full-time on the Island of Oahu.
- May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Must pass a background check and possibly a drug test.
- Must comply with Department of Transportation security requirements.
- Probationary period of six months may apply.
Benefits
Complete health insurance through the State of Hawai'i.
- Retirement benefits through the Employees' Retirement System.
- Paid vacation and sick leave.
- Eleven paid holidays per year.
- Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
Additional Information
Recruitment Number: DOT-AIR-2026-28.
- This job posting will remain open until 30 applications are received; it may close at any time.
- Hiring rates are based on availability of funds, qualifications, and other relevant factors.
- For questions, contact the DOT Personnel Office at (808) 587-2145, Monday-Friday, 7:45 AM-4:30 PM HST.
- The Department of Human Resources Development-State Recruiting Office handles inquiries.
- This is a civil service position with the State of Hawai'i Department of Transportation.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
About Company
The State of Hawai'i Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the state's transportation systems, including airports, harbors, and highways. The DOT's Airports Division oversees safety and certification programs across the state's airports. Working for the State of Hawai'i offers the chance to serve the public in a unique island environment with a strong emphasis on community and safety. State of Hawai'i is named as the hiring organisation for the SAFETY MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST IV-V (DELEGATED)
- OAHU post.
FAQs
What is the difference between Safety Management Specialist IV and V?
The IV level requires a bachelor's degree and two years of professional safety management experience, while the V level requires three years of experience. The pay range also differs: IV pays $5,527-$6,728 per month, and V pays $6,221-$7,568 per month.
Can experience substitute for the education requirement?
Yes, the State of Hawai'i allows substitution of experience for education on a year-for-year basis. If you do not have a bachelor's degree, you may qualify with additional professional safety management experience.
How long does the recruitment process take?
The timeline varies. After the recruitment closes (once 30 applications are received), applications are reviewed, and qualified candidates may be scheduled for exams or interviews. The entire process can take several weeks to a few months.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
You must complete the online application and any supplemental questionnaires. It is recommended to attach a resume and copies of transcripts or certifications to support your qualifications. A driver's license copy may be required if the position demands it.
Is this position remote or onsite?
This position is onsite at the Department of Transportation offices in Honolulu, Oahu. You must be able to work at the specified location and may need to travel to airport facilities for inspections and training.
What is the selection process after I apply?
After the recruitment closes, your application is reviewed for minimum qualifications. Qualified applicants may be required to take a written exam or performance test. Top scorers are referred to the hiring department for interviews, and final selection is based on interview performance and qualifications.