Director of Building Safety & Compliance

Location: New York, NY
Function: Security / Property Management

A large real estate development and property management organization is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Building Safety & Compliance to lead environmental health and safety (EHS) efforts across a diverse portfolio of development and managed properties in the New York region.

This senior leadership role is responsible for the design, implementation, and oversight of comprehensive EHS programs to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations. The Director will work closely with internal teams, project leadership, and external stakeholders to mitigate risk, promote sustainability, and foster a strong culture of safety for employees, contractors, tenants, and the surrounding community.

EHS Program Development & Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain enterprise-wide environmental health and safety programs across all phases of real estate development and property operations.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA, EPA, and New York City–specific environmental and safety requirements.

• Lead audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews; identify deficiencies and implement corrective actions.

Risk Assessment & Mitigation

• Conduct ongoing risk assessments to identify hazards and improvement opportunities.

• Establish and enforce safety protocols to reduce incidents across construction sites and operating properties.

Training & Education

• Design and deliver EHS training programs for employees, contractors, and vendors to ensure compliance and promote best practices.

Incident Investigation & Reporting

• Lead investigations into accidents, near misses, and environmental incidents.

• Ensure proper documentation, root cause analysis, and implementation of preventative measures.

Sustainability Initiatives

• Support organizational sustainability objectives by incorporating green building practices, energy efficiency initiatives, and waste reduction strategies.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Act as the EHS subject matter expert for cross-functional teams throughout design, construction, and property management phases.

• Provide guidance on safety and environmental considerations for new and existing projects.

Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain accurate records related to inspections, training, incidents, and regulatory filings.

• Prepare and present EHS performance metrics and reports to senior leadership.

External Stakeholder Engagement

• Coordinate with regulatory agencies, consultants, and third-party vendors to address compliance matters and EHS concerns.

• Anticipated base salary range: $135,000 – $145,000, plus discretionary bonus eligibility

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

• Retirement savings plan

• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

• Collaborative, safety-focused workplace culture

Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, skills, and market considerations.

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Engineering, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in Environmental Health and Safety leadership, ideally within real estate development, construction, or property management.

• Strong working knowledge of OSHA, EPA, NYC DEP, and other applicable environmental and safety regulations.

• Experience with sustainability initiatives, green building standards (e.g., LEED), and environmental risk management.

• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing EHS programs across multiple sites or projects.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with exceptional attention to detail.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels.

• Professional certifications such as CSP, ASP, or CIH preferred.