Program Coordinator II (Operations Manager) - 60025576

State of South Carolina • Abbeville County, SC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is seeking an experienced, solutions-oriented Operations Manager to lead county-level school bus shop operations. This role connects day-to-day operations with statewide transportation priorities and provides leadership over staff, facilities, fleet readiness, safety compliance, and service quality across assigned service centers. The Operations Manager provides county-level leadership and oversight of school bus transportation operations. This position ensures fleet readiness, personnel effectiveness, safety compliance, facilities integrity, routing accuracy, and consistent service delivery across assigned service centers. The Operations Manager coordinates closely with school districts, service center leadership, and regional management to maintain high standards of transportation service, regulatory compliance, and operational accountability in support of South Carolina’s statewide pupil transportation mission.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree and relevant program experience.
• Ability to pass required drug screenings, background checks, and USDOT medical examination.

Nice To Haves

• Three (3) years of experience in transportation programs, operations, or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree plus three (3) years of relevant experience
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Class A or B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger and Air Brake endorsements within 120 days of employment
• Ability to obtain required certifications including OSHA-30, CPR/First Aid, Reasonable Suspicion, A/B Operator, School Bus Inspection, and Forklift certifications
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and agency information systems
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, communicate effectively, and maintain accurate documentation
• Ability to work in office, shop, and outdoor environments and comply with all safety requirements
• Strong knowledge of pupil transportation operations and fleet management principles
• Ability to lead multi-site operations and supervise diverse teams
• Experience with maintenance, routing, safety, and compliance systems
• Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and implement operational improvements
• Strong administrative, organizational, and communication skills
• Commitment to safety, accountability, and public service

Responsibilities

• Oversee preventive maintenance and repair performance to keep fleet assets service-ready, minimize downtime, and ensure complete and accurate maintenance documentation.
• Maintain safe, compliant facilities and equipment through inspections and consistent shop/workplace cleanliness and readiness standards.
• Build, train, and manage a high-performing workforce through hiring, scheduling/attendance oversight, certification support, and performance and employee-relations management.
• Reduce risk and ensure regulatory adherence by investigating incidents, maintaining required documentation, enforcing OSHA/environmental standards, and ensuring PPE and safety procedures are followed.
• Use transportation systems and data to verify route accuracy, audit route operations, monitor telematics, and identify trends that improve efficiency and reliability.
• Serve as the primary district-facing coordinator to address service expectations and operational issues while managing purchasing/assets, reporting/audit readiness, fuel compliance, and regional directives.
• Perform other duties supporting statewide transportation services and agency priorities.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance options for employees and eligible dependents
• Fifteen (15) days annual (vacation) leave per year
• Fifteen (15) days sick leave per year
• Thirteen (13) paid holidays
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation (401k) programs
• Professional development and leadership training opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level