Chief Transit Director

Chief Transit Director

The Chief Transit Director is responsible for both rural and urban transit systems in Southeast Tennessee, including nine rural counties and the Cleveland Area Urban Transit System. The person in this position will supervise the respective Directors of those operations, the Transit Safety and Fleet team, and transit facilities. The role involves strategic planning, operational oversight, community engagement, partnership development, collaboration, policy development, innovation, project planning and implementation, crisis management, and grant research, writing, and management. Overall, the Chief Public Transportation Director will balance the unique challenges and needs of each setting while working towards creating efficient, accessible, and sustainable transportation systems for the community.

Strategic Planning:

·        Develop short-term and long-term strategic plans for public transportation services in both rural and urban areas.

·        Identify opportunities for service expansion, route optimization, and integration of new technologies.

·        Identify goals, objectives, and performance metrics for improving the efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability of the transit systems.

Operational Oversight:

·        Ensure that public transportation services run smoothly, adhere to schedules, and meet the needs of passengers.

·        Monitor rural and urban transit systems to ensure proper maintenance, repair, and upgrades of vehicles, infrastructure, and facilities.

·        Coordinate with the Rural Transit Director and the Cleveland Urban Area Transit Director to monitor performance data and use it to make informed decisions for service improvements.

·        Provide and present communications and updates on department activities, positions, and project/program status.

Procurement, Contract Negotiation, Budgeting, and Funding:

·        Work with financial teams to develop budgetary allocations that support the implementation of strategic initiatives.

·        Work with the Rural Transit Director and the Cleveland Urban Area Transit Director to develop budgets for both rural and urban transit systems, allocating funds for training, maintenance, staff salaries, infrastructure development, and technology upgrades.

·        Seek out and secure funding sources, such as government grants, public-private partnerships, fare revenue, and contract revenue to support the operations and expansion of the transit systems.

·        Oversee and/or negotiate contracts.

·        Develop, administer, and oversee department operating budget. Review financial statements and monitor and approve expenditures and ensure compliance.

Community Engagement:

·        Collaborate with local communities to understand their transportation needs and concerns.

·        Organize public meetings and forums to gather feedback on existing services and potential improvements.

·        Implement community outreach and education programs to increase public awareness and promote the use of public transportation.

Policy Development:

·        Work with relevant stakeholders to develop transportation policies that prioritize safety, accessibility, environmental sustainability, and affordability.

·        Advocate for policies that support the growth and enhancement of public transportation systems at local, regional, and national levels.

Innovation and Technology:

·        Stay updated on emerging technologies and trends in the transportation industry that could enhance the quality and efficiency of services.

·        Oversight of the integration of technology solutions like real-time tracking, mobile apps, and contactless payment systems to improve the user experience.

Collaboration and Partnerships:

·        Collaborate with other government agencies, local authorities, private companies, and nonprofit organizations to create a seamless transportation network.

·        Build partnerships to leverage resources, share expertise, and improve the overall transportation ecosystem.

Crisis Management:

·        Develop contingency plans for addressing emergencies, natural disasters, or unexpected disruptions in service.

·        Coordinate response efforts to ensure the safety of passengers and staff during crises.

Data Analysis and Decision-Making:

·        Utilize data analytics to monitor ridership trends, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

·        Coordinate with the Rural Transit Director and the Cleveland Urban Area Transit Director to make informed decisions based on data-driven insights to optimize service routes, schedules, and fare structures.

Public Awareness and Marketing:

·        Oversight of projects to ensure the public is aware of public transportation services and how to access those services.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Attributes Required

·        A deep understanding of transportation systems and transit system funding.

·        Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations governing transit operations, safety standards, and compliance requirements.

·        Familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities presented by both urban and rural transit systems.

·        Proficiency in budgeting, financial forecasting, and resource allocation to ensure cost-effective transit operations.

·        Awareness of and familiarity with emerging technologies, such as smart transportation systems, electric vehicles, and data analytics, to improve transit efficiency and sustainability.

·        Understanding of environmental concerns and sustainable practices related to transportation, including reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly alternatives.

·        Knowledge of community outreach and engagement strategies to address the specific needs and preferences of different populations.

·        Strong leadership skills to guide transit teams and set a clear strategic direction.

·        The ability to develop long-term transit plans and strategies that align with the goals of the organization and the community.

·        Skills in financial planning, budget management, and securing funding through grants and partnerships.

·        Effective management of transit operations, including scheduling, maintenance, and safety protocols.

·        Excellent communication skills to engage with stakeholders, employees, and the public.

·        The capacity to identify and resolve complex issues and challenges in transit operations.

·        Negotiating skills to collaborate with contractors and government agencies.

·        The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging technologies in the transportation industry.

·        Strong analytical skills to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.

·        The capability to assess and mitigate risks associated with transit operations.

·        The ability to handle conflicts and disputes effectively, whether internal or external.

·        Sound judgment and decision-making skills, often in high-pressure situations.

·        High ethical standards and integrity in dealing with public funds and serving the community.

·        A forward-thinking mindset to drive innovation and improvement in transit systems.

·        Ability to collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and private sector partners.

·        A commitment to providing quality transit services that meet the needs and expectations of passengers.

·        A genuine passion for public transportation and a dedication to its improvement and expansion.

·        Awareness and respect for the diverse cultures and communities served by the transit system.

Minimum Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s Degree in Transportation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, Transportation Planning, or related field.

·        Master’s Degree preferred.

·        Minimum of five years of public transportation experience.

·        Minimum of five years of supervisory experience.

·        Proven track record of progressively responsible roles in transportation systems.

·        A strong understanding of federal, state, and local regulations governing transportation.

Additional Work Requirements

·        Must be at least 21 years of age.

·        Pre-employment background check.

·        Must maintain clean Motor Vehicle Record.

·        Employees in this job position are subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, drug and/or alcohol screenings.

·        Must obtain and maintain a TDOT (Tennessee Department of Transportation) medical card throughout employment with SETHRA.

·        Must wear glasses or contact lenses if a requirement on license.

·        Must wear hearing-aids, if applicable.

·        Must attend and complete regular scheduled training sessions.

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment and in a Transportation vehicle work environment which includes variations of outside weather conditions.

This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.

Physical Demands

The position operates in an office and a mobile environment.  .

Travel

Some travel is expected for this position.

Full-Time Benefits

• State of Tennessee Retirement System
• Medical, Dental and vision insurance
• Paid Holidays
• 37.5 hour work week
• Paid Time Off
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program