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Director Of Public Safety Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Reporting to the Vice President for Student Experience, the Director of Public Safety is primarily responsible for leading, managing, and evaluating all Public Safety personnel, programs, and ...

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Director Of Public Safety information

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$57.5K

$119.6K

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How much do director of public safety jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of public safety in the United States is $119,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $140,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director of public safety?

A Director of Public Safety is a senior official responsible for overseeing public safety operations within a community, organization, or institution. This role typically involves managing departments such as police, fire, and emergency medical services to ensure the safety and security of the public. The Director develops policies, coordinates emergency response strategies, and works closely with local government officials and community leaders. Their duties also include budgeting, staff training, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. The overall goal is to maintain a safe environment for all residents and stakeholders.

What does a director of public safety do?

A director of public safety oversees the safety services for citizens in a city, county, or in another large, shared space. When you work for a city or a county, you work closely with the police and fire chief to develop procedures and policies to protect citizens. You create emergency plans, implement them properly, and ensure every department has a plan in case of an emergency. Your responsibilities include managing the prevention of dangerous situations and ensuring your facility is secure. Other duties include writing reports on any incidents and developing basic training programs for employees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of public safety, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Public Safety, you need extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency management, and public safety operations, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with incident command systems (ICS), emergency response planning software, and certifications such as FEMA or NIMS are commonly required. Leadership, crisis management, and strong communication skills are crucial for coordinating diverse teams and engaging with the community. These skills ensure effective planning, rapid response, and the safety and security of the public in critical situations.

How does a director of public safety typically collaborate with other city departments and community organizations?

A Director of Public Safety often works closely with leaders from other municipal departments, such as emergency management, public health, and city administration, to coordinate comprehensive safety strategies. They also foster partnerships with community organizations, local businesses, and educational institutions to address public concerns, implement outreach programs, and enhance preparedness efforts. Regular interdepartmental meetings and community engagement initiatives are common, ensuring that the public safety approach is both proactive and responsive to the community’s unique needs.

What is the difference between Director Of Public Safety vs Security Manager?

AspectDirector Of Public SafetySecurity Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, public safety, or related field; certifications like CPP or PSP are commonOften requires a bachelor's degree in security, criminal justice, or related area; certifications like CPP are also valued
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple departments, manages public safety policies, and coordinates with law enforcementManages security personnel and systems within a specific organization or facility
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government, large corporations, and public institutionsCommon in private companies, hospitals, and commercial facilities

The main difference is that the Director Of Public Safety has broader responsibilities, overseeing overall safety policies and multiple departments, while a Security Manager focuses on managing security staff and systems within a specific organization. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience but differ in scope and strategic involvement.

What cities are hiring for Director Of Public Safety jobs?

Cities with the most Director Of Public Safety job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Director Of Public Safety jobs?

The top employers for Director Of Public Safety jobs are:

What states have the most Director Of Public Safety jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Of Public Safety jobs include:

Infographic showing various Director Of Public Safety job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,595 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Director of Public Safety

Public Value

NY • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Reporting to the Vice President for Student Experience, the Director of Public Safety is primarily responsible for leading, managing, and evaluating all Public Safety personnel, programs, and services. The director provides effective leadership in times of crises, conflict, and other challenges facing the safety of the campus. Responsibilities include: development, implementation, and evaluation of public safety programs and services; management of a comprehensive campus parking program, effective implementation of federal and university standards and regulation for safety/security; developing effective relationships and coordination with relevant law enforcement agencies including government investigation units and mutual law enforcement functions; effective financial management of department funds and budgets; development of effective emergency protocols and plans as they relate to assigned areas; and delivering security/safety training to the campus community.

As a member of the Student Experience leadership team, the Director serves in an on-call capacity, responding to campus emergencies and collaborating with senior leadership. The Director participates in student conduct investigations and hearings as needed and serves on campus-wide committees. Working collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and external partners, this role will work to enhance campus safety and ensure the department reflects the University’s commitment to inclusive, transparent, and community-centered practices.

Salary: $62,354-$64,853 annually

Essential Functions

Under the direction of the Vice President for Student Experience, the Director will plan, organize, and oversee all aspects of the Department of Public Safety, including but not limited to:

  • Provide leadership for a department operating 24/7, ensuring effective daily operations.
  • Develop and articulate a strategic vision grounded in professional best practices for Public Safety.
  • Recruit, hire, train, supervise, schedule, and retain qualified Public Safety Officers and student guards.
  • Develop and implement comprehensive training programs, including field training, in-service, and ongoing professional development.
  • Establish and maintain policies and operational procedures that ensure consistency, compliance, and coordination of personnel, equipment, and processes.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and University regulations, including Clery Act requirements and preparation of the Annual Security Report, and the Stop Campus Hazing Act.
  • Prepare and manage the department’s operational budget.
  • Maintain and update the University’s Integrated Contingency Plan with campus partners.
  • Lead planning, implementation, and assessment of Public Safety initiatives and related University strategic plan initiatives.
  • Oversee parking enforcement across campus and all University-owned property.
  • Coordinate and oversee investigations related to Alfred University community members.
  • Lead campus-wide emergency preparedness and response efforts by coordinating tabletop exercises and drills.
  • Manage, operate and activate the University’s emergency notification system; developing clear, timely, and responsive emergency communications (i.e., RAVE emergency alerts).
  • Develop and conduct emergency preparedness training programs for faculty, staff, and students.
  • Assess physical security and emergency management systems and recommend enhancements (e.g., cameras, card access, public address systems).
  • Coordinate campus-wide safety communications.
  • Serve on the CARE team, Behavioral Assessment Team, and Safety Committee.
  • Assist with Title IX investigations and hearings as needed.
  • Represent Alfred University in partnerships with the Village of Alfred, Village of Alfred Police Department, Alfred State College, NYS University Police, and other local, state, and professional organizations.
  • Participate in professional development at the national, state, and regional levels.
  • Engage in Student Experience meetings, forums, retreats, and other assigned activities.
Other Duties & Responsibilities
  • Maintain 24/7, year-round on-call availability.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert and advisor to senior leadership on safety, security, and emergency management initiatives.
  • Maintain a service-oriented approach to working with colleagues, students, faculty, staff, as well as other community stakeholders and a willingness to embrace the University’s mission and values.
  • Work independently with reliability while exercising ethical leadership, sound judgment, and sensitivity to the unique role of public safety in higher education.
  • Ensure appropriate staffing coverage and accountability through effective scheduling.
  • Monitor departmental compliance with university policies and operational standards.
  • Oversee safety operations, communications, dispatch, and patrol functions.
  • Foster a compassionate, inclusive, and community-minded Public Safety team.
  • Build and sustain relationships that promote trust between Public Safety and the campus community.
  • Maintain a safe working environment in compliance with safety regulations, including proper handling of Safety Data Sheet (SDS) information.
  • Participate in all required training, including safety and professional development programs.
  • Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, professionalism, and the ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
  • Exhibit cultural competence and a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Qualifications – Education & Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Required Qualifications:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Psychology, Sociology, or related field.
    • A minimum of eight (8) years of experience in safety and security, law enforcement, or emergency management.
    • A minimum of five (5) years of experience in a leadership (supervisory) capacity.
    • Valid New York State driver’s license and a driving record aligned with the University’s motor vehicle policy.

The successful candidate will also possess proven managerial ability with specific training in supervisory/management skills and responsibilities in a 24/7 university setting; demonstrated success in managing complex projects; demonstrated experience building consensus; working with teams; exhibiting sound judgment; practicing flexibility; working within a constantly changing environment; and exhibiting strong written and verbal communication skills.

  • Preferred Qualifications:
    • Master’s degree.
    • NIMS/ICS, CPR/AED certification.
    • Knowledge of the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security and Campus Crime Statistics Act.

Highly desired qualifications and skills include the ability to lead change and foster continuous improvement across an organization; experience overseeing and managing budgets; a solid commitment to customer service, working courteously and effectively with students, faculty, staff, the media, and the community; excellent administrative, organizational, oral, and written communication, interpersonal, and public relations skills; commitment to a team‑oriented leadership style; ability to build enduring, collaborative working relationships that engender trust and respect; demonstrated knowledge of Clery Act, Title IX, and other compliance requirements; strong data analysis capability; ability and willingness to work flexible hours; and an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and to promoting an inclusive campus climate.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Personal Protective Equipment must be worn when required. A respiratory function test and the ability to use respirators may be required. Stairs and uneven surfaces may be present; artificial lifts, etc. may or may not be available. The position may require the incumbent to walk outdoors in all types of weather to other buildings or offices located on the campus. The Campus is located in an area that contains numerous hills and slopes and may not always be fully accessible for mobility impaired individuals.

Alfred University actively subscribes to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and will not discriminate against any employee, student or applicant because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, gender identification or expression, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry or national origin, marital status, genetic information, military or veteran status, domestic violence victim status, criminal conviction status, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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