Transportation Director

Position Objectives

 

​McDowell County is seeking a qualified Transit Operations Director to oversee and supervise daily transit operations, including fixed-route and paratransit services. This position will be responsible for ensuring that all transit operations comply with federal and state regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), NCDOT, and Medicaid. The ideal candidate will demonstrate leadership in managing transit staff, improving operations, securing funding through grants, and ensuring a high level of customer service.

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Duties & Responsibilities

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• Supervision & Leadership:

  • Oversee daily operations of the county’s transit, fixed-route, and paratransit services.

  • Lead and supervise staff involved in transportation operations, ensuring compliance with safety, operational, and regulatory standards.

  • Train employees on transit procedures, vehicle operation, safety protocols, and customer service.

  • Conduct performance evaluations, counseling, and manage disciplinary or termination actions when necessary.

• Operational Oversight:

  • Monitor the work of assigned employees for accuracy and compliance with work methods, standards, and safety regulations.

  • Review operator inspection reports and coordinate necessary maintenance or repairs for transit equipment and vehicles.

  • Ensure timely and efficient resolution of complaints or inquiries from the public related to transit services.

• Budgeting & Grant Management:

  • Prepare and manage the department’s annual budget in alignment with McDowell County policies.

  • Research, apply for, and manage transit-related grants through the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and Medicaid to support the county’s transportation system.

  • Prepare and submit regular progress reports and financial updates to the County Manager and other stakeholders.

• Policy & Procedure Development:

  • Participate in the development of policies and procedures to ensure compliance with state, federal, and local regulations.

  • Review and recommend changes to existing transit operations and policies to improve efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction.

  • Present recommendations and service updates to the McDowell County Commissioners, NCDOT, and other community stakeholders.

• Certification & Compliance:

  • Oversee the issuance of ADA certifications to individuals in the McDowell County transit service area.

  • Ensure that the transit system meets all state and federal regulations, including those related to vehicle safety, accessibility, and maintenance.

• Staffing & Scheduling:

  • Prepare weekly time sheets for transit drivers, monitor timesheet changes, and assist with payroll-related inquiries.

  • Organize staff schedules and manage driver assignments to ensure optimal service delivery.

• Reporting & Public Engagement:

  • Attend and report to the McDowell County Transportation Advisory Board, offering updates on services, grants, and recommended service changes.

  • Respond to public inquiries and assist customers with concerns or complaints about transit services.

• Additional Duties:

• •  

    In addition to the primary duties, this role often requires driving a route, which is a common and essential part of the day-to-day responsibilities. The position also involves frequent hands-on work, including tasks like operating a lift, servicing hatches and doors, and performing maintenance on various components of the vans. These activities are a regular part of the job, occurring on a daily basis.

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    Perform other duties as assigned by the County Manager to support the goals of the department.​​

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Minimum Requirements

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• Education:

  • A degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Transportation Planning, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, a combination of education and relevant work experience may be considered.

• Experience:

  • A minimum of three years of increasingly responsible experience in transportation administration or operations.

  • Prior supervisory or management experience in transit or a related field is preferred.

  • Bi-lingual ability is desirable.

• Licensing/Certification:

  • Must have a valid North Carolina driver’s license.

• Skills & Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of methods and techniques for delivering transportation programs, as well as principles of supervision, training, and performance management.

  • Ability to operate commercial passenger vehicles and understand related transportation regulations.

  • Strong communication skills, both orally and in writing, with the ability to prepare clear and concise reports.

  • Proficiency in computer software, including Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant transportation management systems.

  • Ability to work effectively with the public, staff, and governmental agencies.

 

• Physical Demands & Work Environment:

 

• Environment: Primarily office-based with occasional field work and travel between sites. Exposure to noise, smoke, fumes, and gases may occur in transit operations.

• Physical: The position requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods, along with occasional light to moderate lifting.

• Vision: Must be able to see in the normal visual range with or without correction. Sufficient vision to read computer screens and printed documents.

• Hearing: Must be able to hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.

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Benefits

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Benefited after 30 days

Medical, dental, and life insurance
Sick, vacation, and holiday pay
Membership in the Local Government Retirement System

Supplemental retirement 401k/457

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​*For eligible employees who transfer to McDowell County directly from another Local Government Agency all benefits are effective immediately (no wait period).