Chief Safety & Security Officer (CSSO)

The Texas Railway Preservation Association (TRPA) is seeking a Chief Safety & Security Officer (CSSO) to architect and lead the protection strategies for our physical assets and public environments. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, you will be the primary authority on site safety, asset security, and risk mitigation.

As the TRPA operates within the "Apple Garage" phase—often in neighborhood-integrated or public-facing settings—your role is to ensure that the SP 982, our rolling stock, and our future headquarters remain secure and respected. We are looking for a leader with a "Zero-Failure" mindset who can balance rigorous industrial safety with the hospitality required for a world-class educational ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Security Architecture: Design and implement a comprehensive security plan for all TRPA sites, including mobile restoration sorties and the "Crane Cafe" neighborhood concept.
• Safety & Compliance Oversight: Establish OSHA-compliant safety protocols for heavy industrial restoration work. You will ensure every volunteer and visitor adheres to the TRPA’s "Safe Operations" standards.
• Asset Protection & Restitution: In collaboration with the General Counsel, lead the response to vandalism, theft, or unauthorized access. You will be the primary liaison with local Houston law enforcement to ensure the protection of our industrial heritage.
• Risk Mitigation & Incident Management: Conduct regular site audits to identify and eliminate physical hazards. You will lead the investigation and reporting of any on-site incidents with professional authority.
• Technology Integration: Oversee the deployment of digital security infrastructure, including remote monitoring, access control systems, and industrial-grade surveillance.
• Community Liaison: Act as the face of TRPA security within our neighborhoods, ensuring that our presence is viewed as a safe, protective, and positive addition to the community.

Professional Requirements

• Security Pedigree: Proven experience in Law Enforcement, Military Leadership, Industrial Security, or Corporate Risk Management.
• Safety Certification: Strong knowledge of OSHA standards or industrial safety protocols (CSP or similar certifications are a plus).
• Operational Command: The ability to maintain calm, decisive authority during live events or mechanical restoration sorties.
• Interpersonal Excellence: A professional presence capable of communicating firm boundaries with the public while maintaining a positive "on-brand" demeanor.
• Mission Alignment: A genuine commitment to protecting the physical history of Texas and ensuring the safety of those who come to learn from it.

The TRPA Advantage

You are the guardian of the Foundry. While others build and brand, you ensure that the vision remains safe and that the iron is protected for the next century. This is a high-impact leadership role where you will define the safety culture of a rising Texas institution.

Join the TRPA. Secure the Power.