Transportation Operations Leader

Transportation Operations Leader

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the daily operations of a student transportation facility. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services while supporting employees, maintaining strong customer relationships, and driving operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the transportation facility and assigned teams.
• Lead, coach, and support dispatch, operations staff, and drivers to achieve performance goals.
• Conduct regular team meetings to communicate company goals, initiatives, and operational updates.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with school district representatives to ensure exceptional service and customer satisfaction.
• Assist with driver recruitment, onboarding, training, and retention to maintain appropriate staffing levels.
• Monitor route coverage and ensure all daily routes and extracurricular trips are staffed.
• Observe employee performance and provide coaching, recognition, and corrective action when appropriate.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Assist with payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgeting, and month-end financial reporting.
• Support contract compliance by providing required reports and documentation to customers.
• Review transportation contracts, leases, and vendor agreements to ensure operational compliance.
• Promote community engagement and assist with recruiting initiatives.
• Champion new technologies and process improvements that enhance safety, efficiency, and customer service.
• Maintain the qualifications necessary to operate a school bus and provide route coverage when needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred and may be considered in place of up to two years of related experience.
• Three or more years of experience in student transportation operations.
• Experience in dispatch, safety, training, maintenance, or transportation leadership is preferred.
• Leadership experience in a related industry may be considered.
• Ability to obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL) with Passenger (P), School Bus (S), and Air Brake endorsements within six months of hire.
• Ability to pass all required background screenings, drug testing, and physical examinations.

Preferred Skills

• Strong leadership, coaching, and employee development abilities.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard business software.
• Working knowledge of transportation and employment regulations, including DOT, OSHA, EPA, DOL, and applicable state requirements.
• Ability to maintain professionalism during high-pressure situations.
• Commitment to safety, customer service, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to foster an inclusive, respectful, and positive workplace culture.

Why Join Our Team?

• Leadership opportunity with meaningful community impact.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Opportunity to develop employees and improve transportation operations.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Career growth and professional development opportunities.