Manager in Development
About The Position
The Manager in Development (MID) program at First Student is designed to prepare future leaders through hands-on operational experience, structured development, and direct mentorship. Participants will gain exposure to student transportation operations, working alongside local and regional leaders to develop essential operational, leadership, and people-management skills. This is a fully on-site position in Danbury, CT, requiring candidates to be based in or able to commute to the region. Upon successful completion, candidates may be placed in management roles within the Danbury, CT region.
Requirements
- Leadership potential and a strong desire to learn, grow, and advance
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Sound problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, people-focused environment
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing operational needs
- A hands-on leadership style and willingness to work alongside frontline teams
- Ability to work Monday through Friday, with hours varying between 6:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
- Ability to work fully on-site in Danbury and remain flexible for future placement within the Danbury, CT region
- English proficiency
Nice To Haves
- Previous operations, transportation, supervisory, or management experience is a plus, but not required
Responsibilities
- Learn the day-to-day operations of a First Student location from the ground up
- Participate in rotations across multiple departments, including dispatch, road supervision, safety, finance, human resources, and maintenance
- Work side-by-side with experienced managers to learn staffing, scheduling, employee relations, safety, compliance, and customer service
- Gain hands-on experience supporting daily transportation operations
- Assist with driver and staff performance, attendance, scheduling, and operational needs
- Build strong relationships with staff, drivers, and school district partners
- Lead projects, troubleshoot operational challenges, and identify opportunities for process improvement
- Learn First Student policies, procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements
- Develop an understanding of location financial performance, budgeting, staffing, and operational metrics
- Support the Location Manager and leadership team with daily operational priorities
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Life and disability insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Structured leadership development
- Hands-on mentorship from experienced First Student leaders
- Exposure to multiple areas of transportation operations
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Career advancement opportunities throughout First Student
- Positive, team-focused work environment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
