Transportation Director

Position Title: Transit Director Department: Transportation FLSA Status: Exempt Reports To: Human Services Director General Statement of Duties 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. Distinguishing Features of the Class 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. Program Administration & Operations 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. Supervision & Personnel Management 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. Financial & Grant Management 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. Planning & Development 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. Community Relations & Reporting 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. Fleet & Safety Oversight 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. Additional Duties Performs other related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of: Public transportation systems, operations, and service delivery models Federal and state transportation regulations and funding requirements Grant writing, administration, and reporting processes Budgeting, financial management, and governmental accounting principles Personnel management and effective supervisory practices Skills: Leadership, team management, and employee development Organization and time management across multiple priorities Data analysis and report preparation Customer service and conflict resolution Proficiency in computer applications, including spreadsheets, databases, and transit software Abilities: Plan