Director of Fixed Route Operations

Are you driven by a passion for public service and energized by the fast pace of transit operations? If so, read on!

About Us 

Metro is the public transportation provider serving Kalamazoo County, with a history that stretches back to 1900. Over the past 50 years, we’ve evolved into a modern, accessible, and community‑focused transit system. Metro operates 21 fixed‑route bus lines across the Kalamazoo area, including the cities of Kalamazoo, Portage, and Parchment, as well as major institutions like Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Our fleet includes 46 fixed‑route buses. We also operate Metro Connect, a federally mandated, county‑wide ADA paratransit service that provides curb‑to‑curb transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

About the Role 

The Operations Division provides a fixed-route bus service, which includes approximately 2.0 million rides annually. The Director of Fixed Route Operations works collaboratively with the leadership team in carrying out organizational strategy by setting policies, procedures, and directions within the Operations Division. The Division includes approximately 94 employees. A strong communicator, leader, and team-builder is needed to oversee this complex operation.

Key Responsibilities 

• Oversees the day-to-day route operations, including managing the dispatch center and staff, and managing inter-departmental and community-based projects.
• Ensures sound public relations and responsive customer service by analyzing adequacy of customer service procedures, resolving problems, and determining communication methods.
• Develops and implements short- and long-range plans, policies, and procedures for the organization.
• Provides direction, oversight, and consultation to supervisors and managers regarding operational work responsibilities such as route planning, driver scheduling, staffing, equipment updates/purchases, safety, and personnel issues.
• Collect, manage, and analyze data to improve operations and create reports for the board and for state/federal grants.
• Implement and ensure compliance with the CBA and assist in the management of the grievance process.
• Cultivates and maintains strong relationships and promotes a collaborative team environment with Metro’s Leadership Team, division managers and employees, and external government agencies.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, such as overseeing ADA coordination and following OSHA safety standards.
• Partners with human resources relating to performance management, progressive discipline, attendance practices, policies, staffing, and terminations; provide positive and constructive training, coaching, and feedback to employees.
• Collaborates with management to develop and support a strong succession-planning program within the organization.
  
  

About You

The ideal candidate for this role is passionate and knowledgeable about transit, an excellent leader, analytical, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.