Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness
Deviation - Altitude Undershoot; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Inflight Event / Encounter CFTT / CFIT
Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert; Flight Crew Became Reoriented; Flight Crew Returned To Clearance; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Human Factors
Prior to departure we thoroughly briefed the SID. However; upon departure we leveled for a crossing restriction and failed to initiate the prescribed climb after meeting the crossing. Our lateral navigation was complied with however; which consisted of a vector after the crossing restriction. Conditions were 'clear and a million' so we were able to see the approaching terrain; prompting us to realize our mistake. We began an immediate climb to comply with the SID. Shortly thereafter; ATC advised us to begin a climbing turn away from the terrain; also issuing a terrain alert. At no time was the terrain an imminent threat but even still this event served as a great reminder to diligently brief and follow published procedures; something I always strive for and have a renewed vigor towards.
Hawker 125 First Officer reported ATC issued a terrain alert when they failed to climb as charted on departure from VNY.