Chief Operating Officer

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer

Department: Operations

Status: Full-Time

Reports To: Chief of Staff

Company: CARTA (Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority)

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Summary:

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing all transit operations, ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable service delivery. This executive role provides leadership and strategic direction for fixed-route bus services, electric shuttle operations, paratransit services, and vehicle maintenance. The COO works closely with agency leadership, stakeholders, and the community to enhance service quality, operational efficiency, and compliance with regulatory requirements. This position is also responsible for serving as CARTA’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Other duties may be assigned that are in keeping with the goals and objectives of CARTA.

1.     Operations Management:

·       Oversee daily operations of fixed-route, paratransit, and electric shuttle services, ensuring seamless coordination and efficiency.

·       Implement policies and procedures to improve service reliability, safety, and customer satisfaction.

·       Monitor performance metrics and implement strategies for continuous improvement.

2.     Fleet and Vehicle Maintenance:

·       Direct the maintenance and asset management of all transit vehicles, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.

·       Oversee maintenance scheduling, fleet replacement planning, and sustainability initiatives, including the integration of electric vehicles.

·       Work closely with maintenance teams to enhance fleet reliability and minimize service disruptions.

3.     Paratransit & Accessibility Services:

·       Ensure compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations and oversee the operation of paratransit services for individuals with disabilities.

·       Develop strategies to improve efficiency, service quality, and accessibility for paratransit users.

4.     Regulatory Compliance & Safety:

·       Ensure all transit operations comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including FTA (Federal Transit Administration) guidelines.

·       Oversee safety programs, risk management, and emergency preparedness strategies.

·       Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous training among staff.

5.     Financial & Budget Oversight:

·       Collaborate with the finance department to develop and manage operational budgets.

·       Identify cost-saving measures while maintaining service quality and operational integrity.

6.     Leadership & Team Development:

·       Provide leadership and guidance to operations, maintenance, and administrative staff.

·       Foster a culture of teamwork, professional development, and high performance.

7.     Equal Employment Opportunity Compliance and Leadership: 

·      Ensure compliance with EEO laws by overseeing policies and enforcing regulations.

·      Develop and implement EEO policies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

·      Investigate discrimination, harassment, and retaliation complaints.

·      Advise leadership on EEO strategies for an inclusive workplace.

Qualifications:

Education:

·      Bachelor’s degree in Transportation Management, Public Administration, Business, or a related field.  Equivalent experience in public transportation, administration, or business management may substitute for a bachelor’s degree, including supervisory roles, policy development, and operational oversight.

Experience:

·      10 years of experience in transit operations, fleet management, or a related industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Skills:

·      Strong knowledge of fixed-route, paratransit, and vehicle operations; experience in budget management, regulatory compliance; excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

·       Education: No additional preferred education beyond the stated qualifications.

·       Experience: Experience with FTA regulations, grant management, and sustainable transit solutions.

·       Skills: Familiarity with advanced transit technology, including scheduling software and real-time tracking systems; proven track record of implementing service enhancements and operational efficiencies.

Work Location & Compensation

·      Location: On-site at CARTA headquarters in Chattanooga, TN

·      Salary Range: $100,000-$115,000

·      Comprehensive benefits package

How to Apply

***Qualified applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and three professional references to jeaninemcnulty@gocarta.org. Please include “COO Application” in the subject line.

CARTA is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

CARTA values excellence in public service and seeks candidates who share our commitment to serving the transportation needs of our community with integrity and fiscal responsibility.