Organization: Livingston Educational Service Agency  

Location: Howell, MI

Pay Range: $70,500 to $89,000

Summary:

Provides strategic leadership, direction, and operational oversight for all aspects of the school district's pupil transportation system. Ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the transportation department in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws, and Board of Education policies. This role involves management of personnel, fleet maintenance, safety programs, routing, and fiscal operations. This person will have unquestioned ethics and integrity and will be responsible for continuing the excellent reputation earned by the Agency for strong levels of safety, compliance, and using an innovative spirit to find a way to say “yes” rather than “no”.

Position Responsibilities:

• Develops and administers a comprehensive pupil transportation system that meets the needs of the district, including general education, special education, and extra-curricular travel.

• Directs and manages the inspection, maintenance, repair, and record-keeping for the entire fleet in compliance with Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and Michigan State Police guidelines.

• Manages vehicle parts inventory and purchasing, ensuring cost-effective and timely maintenance of all vehicles.

• Develops and implements efficient bus routes and schedules using specialized routing software to maximize efficiency, reduce operational costs, and optimize student ride times.

• Oversees and approves transportation payroll submissions, timekeeping records, and operational expenditures, managing the departmental budget.

• Establishes, implements, and monitors a continuous program for checking driver eligibility, including maintaining required records of driving abstracts (e.g., MVRs) and medical certifications.

• Manages and ensures delivery of comprehensive initial and continuing education/training programs for all transportation staff, including defensive driving, student management, and special needs transportation.

• Develops, implements, and monitors comprehensive safety programs, including preventative safety protocols, emergency procedures, and accident review protocols.

• Manages and maintains required records and data for state and local reporting (e.g., ridership, mileage, accidents, inventory, and expenditures).

• Analyzes operational data to recommend and implement improvements in service efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance, including rules and regulations for drivers and pupil conduct.

• Reviews and approves all bus stop locations, prioritizing student safety, accessibility, and compliance with route efficiency standards.

• Manages communications with parents, staff, and the community regarding routing, safety, and service issues, resolving complex inquiries and complaints.

• Approves transportation for all field trips and athletic events, cooperating with principals and others responsible for planning special school trips.

• Conforms with all state laws and regulations regarding school transportation.

• Other duties as assigned. 

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of all transportation personnel, including bus drivers and sub/aide drivers. Supervisory responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Interviewing, hiring, and training employees.

• Planning, assigning, and directing work.

• Appraising performance and recommending compensation adjustments.

• Rewarding and disciplining employees.

• Addressing complaints and resolving problems.

• Fostering a professional and positive working environment, promoting high standards of safety, punctuality, and customer service.

Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree in Business, Logistics, Management, or a related field; OR High School Diploma/GED and a minimum of seven (7) years of progressive experience in fleet operations or student transportation.

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in fleet operations or student transportation, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory or management capacity.

• Must possess or be able to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Passenger (P) and School Bus (S) endorsements.

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities (SKA) Required:

• Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state laws governing pupil transportation (e.g., FMCSA, MDE regulations, Michigan State Police School Bus Inspection guidelines).

• Proficiency in using fleet management software, routing software (e.g., Versatrans, Edulog), Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel), and payroll systems.

• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, to interpret complex transportation procedures and regulations to the public and staff.

• Ability to develop effective working relationships with students, staff, parents, and the school community.