Director of Transportation @ Transportation Department

Director of Transportation

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:  

Status: Full-Time; 12 months (260 days), Union-Exempt Manager

Salary: $108,000 - $135,000

Benefits Available

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Transportation is responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of the district’s transportation operations. This includes ensuring safe and efficient student transportation, personnel management, fleet maintenance, route planning, budgeting, compliance with state and federal regulations, and fostering positive relationships with staff, families, and the community. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s degree or equivalent transportation management certification (e.g., Central Washington University Transportation Management Certification) or willingness to enroll in the Central Washington University Transportation Management Certification program upon hire
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a related field
• At least two (2) years of successful supervisory experience
• Valid Washington State driver's license with a Class B Commercial endorsement and appropriate endorsements or able to obtain upon hire
• Valid First Aid/CPR certification or able to obtain upon hire
• Willingness to participate in ongoing leadership development training
• Previous transportation leadership experience preferred

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proven ability to provide leadership for a diverse group of employees
• High level of confidentiality and ethical standards; knowledge of FERPA and other relevant policies, laws, and regulation
• In-depth knowledge of pupil transportation laws, safety regulations, and best practices
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines
• Effective crisis management and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to analyze and interpret maps, schedules, and routing systems
• Proficiency in budget management and financial planning
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to observe, evaluate, and support employee performance of all department employee groups
• Familiarity with school district and Department of Transportation investigative procedures and ability to resolve personnel or operational concerns
• Proficiency in Google Suite, transportation routing software (e.g., Transfinder preferred), and database management systems
• Understanding of and responsiveness to diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds within the community

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Integrates Moses Lake School District’s  mission, vision, values, and goals into all work
• Clearly communicates performance expectations and provides constructive feedback
• Supports employee success through training, leadership development, and continuous improvement
• Measures system efficiency, evaluates outcomes, and implements improvements
• Develops a shared moral purpose and fosters a positive department culture
• Celebrates individual and team achievements
• Provides leadership and strategic planning for the Transportation Department in alignment with district goals
• Oversees efficient, safe bus routes, including specialized transportation for students experiencing homelessness and students with disabilities
• Oversees the driver training program for the effective development of new drivers and support of the regional co-op agreement
• Actively recruits, effectively manages, and accurately evaluates transportation staff
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and district transportation regulations
• Administers the department’s and the regional transportation co-op’s budget and billing responsibly, thoroughly, and accurately
• Collaborates with the finance department to oversee timely and accurate invoicing
• Monitors road and weather conditions, collaborating with district leaders on schedule modifications
• Manages vehicle maintenance and replacement planning for a safe, reliable fleet for the department and the co-op
• Conducts accident investigations and implements safety improvements
• Serves as the district’s primary transportation contact, ensuring clear communication with students, families, staff, and the community
• Collaborates with district leadership and school administrators to address transportation needs
• Develops and implements ongoing staff training for compliance and professional growth
• Represents the district in transportation-related negotiations and labor discussions
• Participates in district and community meetings to address concerns and provide updates
• Promotes teamwork, professionalism, and excellent customer service
• Performs other duties as assigned by district leadership

WORK CONDITIONS

• Requirement to regularly  interact with staff, students, families, and public agencies
• Must be available to respond to emergencies and operational needs outside of regular hours
• Occasional travel may be required for meetings and professional development

The Moses Lake School District #161 does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boys Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX, Civil Rights, Affirmative Action, and Equal Opportunity officer, Michelle Musso, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, (509) 766-2650, mmusso@mlsd161.org; OR Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Samantha Burgess, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, (509) 766- 2670, sburgess@mlsd161.org.

Salary : $108,000 - $135,000