Portales Area Transit Coordinator

City of Portales • Portales, NM

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a term position not to exceed six (6) months, subject to continuation based on funding availability and operational needs. Under the direction of the Community Services Director, the Portales Area Transit Coordinator directs all daily operations of the Portales Area Transit (PAT) demand-response system. This role ensures safe, reliable, curb-to-curb, ADA-accessible transportation services primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities within the City of Portales and it’s 5-mile service area. The Coordinator is responsible for scheduling, dispatch, compliance with all FTA and NMDOT requirements (including BlackCat reporting, Drug & Alcohol, DBE, Buy America, and NTD), personnel supervision, budgeting, grant management support, and marketing. Approximately 70% of the Coordinator’s time and compensation will be allocated as in-kind local match for the Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility grant. The incumbent may apply for a regular full-time Transit Coordinator position if one becomes available in the future. 70% of the Coordinator’s time (and associated salary/fringe) will be allocated as in-kind local match for the Section 5310 program. The remaining 30% will be funded by City general funds.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required
• 1–2 years transit or dispatch experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of FTA/NMDOT regulations (especially Section 5310), BlackCat, and safety standards
• Excellent organizational, communication, and computer skills
• Valid New Mexico driver’s license with clean driving record
• Ability to obtain CDL if required
• Must pass a background investigation including work history, criminal records, driving records and other records deemed necessary.
• Must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug screen administered by a City-designated facility.

Nice To Haves

• Additional education in public administration or transportation preferred

Responsibilities

• Schedule and dispatch demand-response, curb-to-curb trips.
• Manage daily operations (typically 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday–Friday).
• Handle reservations, radio communications, and same-day service as available.
• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate drivers and dispatch staff.
• Maintain training records (passenger assistance, defensive driving, CPR/First Aid, etc.).
• Enforce code of conduct, appearance standards, and City personnel policies.
• Submit all required reports: NTD, quarterly ridership (5310), vehicle inventory, Drug & Alcohol, DBE, etc.
• Ensure Buy America, asset management, maintenance plans, and accident/incident reporting compliance.
• Prepare for NMDOT technical assistance and compliance site visits.
• Assist with line-item budgets and tracking of 5310/operating expenditures.
• Process invoices, reimbursements, and fare collections.
• Implement marketing plan (website, flyers, ENMU partnerships, etc.) to increase ridership, especially among seniors and disabled riders.
• Oversee daily pre/post-trip inspections, preventive maintenance, and vehicle inventory updates in BlackCat.
• Coordinate capital requests and vehicle replacements.
• Enforce passenger behavior, seat belt, and reasonable accommodation policies.
• Maintain accident/incident reporting procedures.
• Participate in RPO/MPO coordinated planning.
• Coordinate with senior centers, human service agencies, and other providers.
• Support FY27/FY28 grant applications and MOA compliance.

Benefits

• If eligible, benefits shall be provided based on budgeted hours and applicable City policies and restrictions.
• This position is not entitled to all of the same benefits available to regular City employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED