Vice President Infrastructure Innovation

The Vice President, Infrastructure Innovation will serve as a visionary and data-driven leader at the forefront of modern transportation practices. This role will drive the integration of advanced technologies, including smart sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and digital twins, into the full life cycle of vehicular suspension bridges and underwater tunnels. The Vice President will champion initiatives that extend asset longevity, enhance public safety, reduce life cycle costs, accelerate progress toward net-zero energy infrastructure, and leverage new or emerging technologies into the day-to-day operation of the organization. This role is pivotal in advancing the safe integration of autonomous vehicles (AVs), exploring next- generation construction materials, and building strong collaborations with academic institutions, government, and industry partners. Reporting to senior agency leadership, the Vice President ensures operational consistency, regulatory readiness, and long-term modernization across MTA Bridges and Tunnels Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP) - Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ).

Key Responsibilities :

Intelligent Infrastructure & Asset Management:

Lead the design and implementation of intelligent infrastructure systems, including real-time structural health monitoring, IoT-enabled diagnostics, and predictive maintenance platforms integrated with the agency’s enterprise asset management (EAM) system to improve lifecycle cost, increase efficiency and improve state of good repair of agency assets.

Support the safe integration of autonomous vehicle (AV) into infrastructure systems, including the deployment of AV-compatible infrastructure, V2X (vehicle-to-everything) communications, and safety analytics related to mixed-use transportation corridors.

Develop and implement digital twin models for key structures to simulate energy performance, material degradation, climate impacts, and operational scenarios under future transportation demands.

Advance automation and precision of inspections and repairs through AI, robotics, UAVs, and underwater inspection technologies.

Energy Innovation & Sustainability:

Incorporate energy-efficient systems and low-carbon technologies into infrastructure planning and upgrades to support net-zero energy goals-such as self-powered sensors, renewable energy integration, and high-efficiency tunnel lighting and ventilation.

Explore and evaluate innovative construction materials, such as ultra-high-performance concrete, self-healing materials, and carbon-sequestering composites to improve durability, reduce maintenance needs, and lower embodied carbon.

Oversee data-driven analytics and dashboards to monitor infrastructure conditions, energy consumption, and performance metrics aligned with sustainability and resilience targets.

Partnerships & Innovation Leadership:

Build and strengthen partnerships with institutions of higher education on joint research initiatives, pilot programs, and federal grant opportunities to explore next-generation infrastructure technologies and best practices.

Represent the agency in national and international forums, and foster relationships with industry, academic, and government partners to shape the future of intelligent, sustainable, and autonomous-ready infrastructure.

Establish cross-functional standards for data collection, cybersecurity, system interoperability, and integration across engineering, operations, IT, and sustainability functions.

Staff Development and Succession Planning :

Identify opportunities to develop employees through strategies to support their growth into leadership roles, ensuring continuity and capacity within critical functions.

Performs other duties as assigned

Complies with all policies and standards .

May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable .

Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable .

Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable .

Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable .

Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable .

• Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) Bachelor’s degree in Engineering , Transportation, Systems, Technology, Project Management, Facility Management, Asset Management, or a related field.

• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Minimum 16 years progressively responsible leadership experience in transportation infrastructure, asset management, policy management, corporate strategy, finance, or a related field.

• Minimum 10 years in a management or supervisory role in a large, multi-faceted organization.

• Significant experience in program management for large government agencies or businesses with highly complex systems.

• Demonstrated experience implementing intelligent infrastructure systems, IoT technologies, predictive maintenance, or digital twin platforms.

• Experience collaborating with governmental agencies, boards, and public stakeholders is critical.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and document management software.

• Proficiency in advanced data analytics including experience in Artificial Intelligence application.

• Knowledge of autonomous vehicle integration, V2X communication systems, emerging business technologies/processes, and emerging mobility trends.

• Deep understanding of sustainable design principles, low-carbon materials, and energy-efficient technologies applied to large-scale infrastructure.

• Knowledge of governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) principles.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated ability with building relationships and working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively work in a high profile, high pressure environment.

• Must have focus and ability to deliver on results, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.

• Must be a proven leader as a change agent and creative/innovative thinker with the ability to align business goals with solutions to drive process improvements.

• Must possess excellent team building, listening, problem solving, and prioritization skills.

• Ability to respond to any authority location on a 24/7 basis when required.

• Project Management Professional (PMP), or equivalent advanced credential.

• Driver’s License is Require d.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in Arts/Sciences (MA/MS) n Business Administration (MBA), Public Policy, or a technical field relevant to operations or information systems.

• Experience with infrastructure systems (e.g., bridges, tunnels, transit, tolling).

• Strong understanding of policy management, technology infrastructure, and space optimization .

• Knowledge of audit, compliance, and regulatory requirements for government agencies or public authorities.

• Knowledge of transportation policy, tolling systems, sustainability initiatives, and infrastructure investment strategies.

• Experience working with shared services models and cross-agency collaboration (e.g., Construction & Development (C&D), IT, Legal).

• Experience working with MTA, state or federal transportation agencies, or large public-sector organizations.

• Artificial Intelligence experience in the tolling industry.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license, or equivalent advanced credential .

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info (https://mtabsc.jdxpert.com/Route/264.639149468002050898.1/kit/en-US/V2_Grey_JDX/1048574.49132.926/0/V2_Grey_JDX/www.mta.info) , click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the “The MTA” section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.

Comprehensive Benefits & Total Rewards Package:

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy - Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.

• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost - Access high-quality individual, family and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision and life insurance plans.

• Secure Your Future - Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away - Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.

• Holistic Support Services - Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program - Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.

• Educational Investment - Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs - Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resources.

• Discounts & Perks - Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.

• Connect & Belong - Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

MTA Bridges and Tunnels operates the largest bridge and tunnel network in New York City, managing nine crossings that include seven bridges and two tunnels. Serving more than 336 million vehicle crossings each year, this network connects communities across the five boroughs and supports regional mobility. In addition, MTA Bridges and Tunnels oversees the Congestion Relief Zone, working to ensure safe, efficient travel and a more sustainable urban environment. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities., MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities. The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply