Transportation | Operations Manager

Transportation Operations Manager

The Transportation Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily transportation operations to ensure safe, reliable, efficient and compliant student transportation services while maintaining strict adherence to state and federal compliance standards.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in logistics or transportation, with at least three (3) years specifically in student transportation or fleet management.
• Strong organization, communication and multitasking skills.
• Working knowledge of student transportation operations, laws, policies and best practices.
• Must possess (or obtain within 180 days) a valid Indiana Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with School Bus (S) and Passenger (P) endorsements.

Essential Functions:

• Direct and lead the planning and continuous improvement of daily transportation operations to maximize safety, fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Establish priorities and make real-time operational decisions to address service disruptions, staffing shortages, weather responses and changing student needs.
• Ensure all transportation services are delivered in compliance with district policies and all applicable state and federal regulations.
• Analyze Key Performance Indicates (KPIs) such as on-time performance and idle times to implement corrective action plans.
• Oversee fleet readiness in collaboration with maintenance to ensure vehicles meet safety, inspection and operational standards.
• Manage the full talent lifecycle for drivers, bus assistants, routers, dispatchers and other transportation support staff, including recruitment, onboarding, professional development and performance evaluations.
• Supervise, evaluate and develop transportation staff, including drivers, dispatchers, and routing personnel.
• Make staffing decisions including hiring, onboarding, scheduling, performance management and discipline in accordance with district policies.
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism and safety through clear expectations and consistent leadership.
• Provide coaching, training and professional development to enhance staff performance and retention.
• Oversee training programs to ensure all staff are properly trained in safety procedures, vehicle operation and emergency response.
• Assists in response efforts for accidents, incidents, and safety concerns, including investigation and corrective action; monitor compliance and proactively mitigate operational and safety risks; develop and deliver "coaching" programs to prevent reoccurrence.
• Foster a professional environment focused on accountability and student-centric service.
• Mediate high-level concerns from parents, school administrators and staff with a focus on timely and diplomatic resolution.
• Ensure 100% compliance with Department of Education (DOE) and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including CDL drug/alcohol testing and certification logs.
• Oversee the logistical requirements for McKinney-Vento and Special Education (IEP) transportation to ensure legal compliance.
• Establish performance expectations and monitor operational outcomes to ensure alignment with departmental and district goals.
• Support the FWCS Schools of Success mission to empower all students to reach their potential through equitable and relevant community-connected experiences to ensure students achieve at least one of the 4E's - (Enrollment, Employment, Enlistment, or Entrepreneurship.)
• Positively promote and embody the FWCS Schools of Success six core competencies in our daily work: Creativity and Innovation, Critical and Analytical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication, Cultural Agility, and Self-Direction
• Perform related duties, as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

To perform the essential functions of this job effectively and safely, employees must meet the following physical qualifications:

• Communication Skills: Ability to speak clearly and hear effectively in various environments.
• Manual Dexterity: Adeptness in the use of hands and fingers.
• Postural Endurance: Sit or stand for prolonged periods, as the job requires.
• Flexibility: Ability to bend at the waist, kneel, or crouch to perform specific duties.
• Visual Acuity: Close vision ability with the capacity to adjust focus.
• Mobility: Freedom to sit or walk at will throughout the work environment.
• Strength and Stamina: Capability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to twenty (25) pounds or more.

FWCS will reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.