Transportation Director

McDowell County•McDowell County Transit, NC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Performs advanced professional, administrative, and supervisory work directing the planning, development, coordination, and operation of public transportation services for McDowell County. Responsibilities include program administration, staff supervision, budgeting, grant management, and ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations. An employee in this class exercises independent judgment and initiative in managing a comprehensive public transportation system, including fixed-route and paratransit services. The position is responsible for overseeing daily operations, long-range planning, financial management, regulatory compliance, and community engagement. Work involves frequent interaction with the public, elected officials, and representatives of local, state, and federal agencies, requiring strong communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills. Work is performed under general supervision of the County Manager and is evaluated based on program effectiveness, regulatory compliance, and service delivery outcomes.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, transportation planning, or a related field, and Five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in transportation or program management, including supervisory experience; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience.
Valid North Carolina driver’s license
Ability to meet applicable Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements
Knowledge of public transportation systems, operations, and service delivery models
Knowledge of federal and state transportation regulations and funding requirements
Knowledge of grant writing, administration, and reporting processes
Knowledge of budgeting, financial management, and governmental accounting principles
Knowledge of personnel management and effective supervisory practices
Skills: Leadership, team management, and employee development
Skills: Organization and time management across multiple priorities
Skills: Data analysis and report preparation
Skills: Customer service and conflict resolution
Proficiency in computer applications, including spreadsheets, databases, and transit software
Abilities: Plan, organize, and direct complex transportation operations
Abilities: Interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies
Abilities: Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms
Abilities: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders
Abilities: Negotiate agreements with vendors, agencies, and partners

Responsibilities

Directs and manages daily operations of the Transit Department, including fixed-route and paratransit services.
Ensures compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations, including ADA, NCDOT, and Medicaid requirements.
Develops, implements, and updates policies and procedures to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant service delivery.
Monitors service performance and implements improvements to meet community needs.
Oversees eligibility certification processes for transportation services.
Recruits, hires, trains, supervises, and evaluates department staff.
Administers employee discipline and recommends termination when necessary.
Ensures staff are trained in safety, compliance, and operational procedures.
Reviews and approves timesheets and addresses payroll-related inquiries.
Develops and administers the department’s annual budget in accordance with County policies.
Monitors expenditures and ensures fiscal responsibility.
Prepares and administers federal and state grants, including NCDOT funding.
Completes required financial reports, reimbursement requests, and operational statistics.
Oversees billing processes, including Medicaid billing (NCTracks), ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
Identifies transportation needs and develops short- and long-term service plans.
Plans for service expansion and improvement in both municipal and rural areas.
Develops and tracks departmental goals, objectives, and performance measures.
Serves as the County’s transit representative and spokesperson.
Promotes transportation services through public outreach, presentations, and community engagement.
Responds to and resolves citizen complaints in a timely and professional manner.
Prepares reports and presents information to the County Manager, Board of Commissioners, and Transportation Advisory Board.
Oversees vehicle maintenance and replacement programs to ensure safe and reliable operations.
Reviews inspection reports and coordinates necessary repairs.
Ensures compliance with safety standards for passengers and staff.
Performs other related duties as assigned.