Head of Emergency Response

About the Role

This position leads the creation, rollout, and day-to-day functioning of the Music City Loop Emergency Response Team (ERT). The team is responsible for fast initial response to multiple hazard types inside the tunnel system, including medical incidents, technical rescue, evacuation support, fire and life safety, and incident command. The role is also accountable for keeping the program aligned with OSHA and NFPA industrial fire brigade requirements and for building a lean, technology-enabled emergency response function that satisfies the operator’s exclusive initial response authority under Tennessee law.

About the Company

The company was founded to address the problem of severe traffic by building an underground tunnel network. Its current focus is on developing tunneling technology that can dramatically improve speed and reduce cost, with the longer-term aim of supporting Hyperloop adoption and enabling fast transit across dense urban regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, own, and continuously update the ERT Charter, the Emergency Response Plan, and all related SOPs while ensuring they fit smoothly with existing internal systems and procedures.
• Create and run a training program built around demonstrated competency that satisfies OSHA 1910.156, NFPA 1081, and TFACA expectations for fire and life safety, along with specialized instruction for tunnel operations, electric vehicle hazards, ventilation management, confined space work, and technical rescue.
• Define the fleet and equipment requirements for the ERT, handle purchasing and oversight, and manage staging, inspection, and upkeep programs.
• Recruit, shape, and direct a high-performing Emergency Response Team.
• Plan and deliver a full drill and exercise calendar, from tabletop sessions to full-scale and joint exercises.
• Oversee the program budget, documentation, audits, ongoing improvements, and reviews after incidents.
• Connect ERT activities with the 24/7 Operations Control Center for monitoring, dispatch, and activation of systems.
• Provide emergency response input on tunnel design decisions and future expansion plans.

Requirements

• At least 8 to 12+ years of steadily increasing experience leading emergency response programs in industrial, facility, or transit settings, with tunnel, underground infrastructure, or other high-hazard environments strongly favored.
• Practical knowledge of OSHA 1910.156, NFPA 600/1081/130, ICS/NIMS, and emergency vehicle and equipment programs.
• Preferred credentials include Fire Officer I or above, EMT-B or Paramedic status or the ability to earn it, confined space rescue technician certification, or a comparable qualification. TFACA or Pro Board/IFSAC certifications are considered an advantage.
• Demonstrated success in building programs from the ground up, including policy creation, curriculum development, equipment sourcing, team building, and coordination with regulators.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder-management abilities.
• Comfort working in tunnel and confined-space environments, including the ability to perform or supervise hands-on emergency response tasks.
• Bachelor’s degree in safety, fire protection, emergency management, or a related discipline is required; a master’s degree is preferred.

Culture

The team is described as smart, resourceful, and highly motivated, with a strong drive to innovate and contribute to the mission at every opportunity.

Benefits

Permanent employees receive employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, paid holidays, paid time off for vacation, and a competitive equity package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications. Hiring is not influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin or ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected characteristic.